Which condition does GERD cause primarily?

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is primarily characterized by the reflux of gastric contents into the esophagus. This condition arises when the lower esophageal sphincter becomes weak or relaxes inappropriately, allowing stomach acid and sometimes bile to flow back up into the esophagus.

This reflux leads to symptoms such as heartburn, regurgitation, and discomfort, which are central to the diagnosis of GERD. Chronic exposure of the esophageal lining to stomach contents can result in inflammation and damage, which may lead to complications like esophagitis or even esophageal ulcers over time. However, the fundamental condition that defines GERD is the irregular reflux itself, making the reflux of gastric contents the primary issue associated with this disorder.

Increased gastric motility, decreased gastric acid production, and esophageal ulceration can be associated with various gastrointestinal conditions, but they do not specifically define GERD or serve as the primary characteristic of the disease. The fundamental issue at the core of GERD remains the backflow of stomach contents.