Gastroesophageal reflux disease, or GERD is a digestive disorder that affects the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), which is the ring of muscle between the esophagus and stomach. Gastroesophageal refers to that of the stomach and esophagus. Reflux means, or refers to flowing backwards or returning. Therefore, gastroesophageal reflux as a phrase, refers to the return of the stomach’s contents backwards up into the esophagus.

In standard or regular digestion, the LES opens to give food the ability to pass freely into the stomach and then shuts to restrict its contents and acidic stomach juices from flowing back into the esophagus. GERD happens when the LES is weakened or malfunctions, allowing the stomach’s contents to flow up into the esophagus.

The severity of GERD depends on the severity of LES dysfunction as well as the type and amount of stomach contents that flow back into the esophagus from the stomach and the neutralizing effect of saliva.

Many millions of people, including pregnant women, suffer from heartburn or acid indigestion caused by GERD. Capital Medical Corporation is introducing the Medcline Acid Reflux Inhibitor pillow as a proven and effective way to combat GERD. This patented device, for use at home during sleep, is non evasive and non-narcotic, making it a safe way to fight this debilitating ailment. The Medcline pillow is a clinically proven acid reflux remedy as tested through trials at the famed Cleveland Clinic.