Better Health, Brighter Future
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a disorder affecting the valve between the esophagus (swallowing tube) and the stomach that results in the very acidic contents from the stomach flowing back up into the esophagus.
Most people with GERD suffer from indigestion, acid reflux or heartburn. Heartburn is not a problem of the heart but is a burning sensation in the central part of the chest that can go right up into the throat. The pain can be so bad that some feel it might be a heart attack.
It is estimated that 5 million Canadians experience heartburn and/or acid regurgitation at least once each week.
This information from the Canadian Digestive Health Foundation is available here.
• GI Society/Canadian Society of Intestinal Research, Report Card: Acid Reflux and GERD in Canada