Lower Esophageal Sphincter (LES): Preventing Acid Reflux

The LES is a circular muscle at the esophagogastric junction. It opens during swallowing, then tightens to prevent gastric reflux. Incompetent LES allows acid backflow, causing GERD (heartburn, esophagitis). Treatments: lifestyle changes (weight loss, head elevation, avoid triggers), medications (PPIs, H2 blockers), surgery (fundoplication) for refractory cases.

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