Understanding The Lower Esophageal Sphincter
Your esophagus is the piece of your digestive system that connects your throat with your stomach, moving food and liquid through it. This system would not be complete without one crucial feature: the lower esophageal sphincter (LES). But what is the LES, and how can it make a difference in your everyday quality of life? Let’s find out.
What Is A Lower Esophageal Sphincter?
The lower esophageal sphincter is a ring of muscles at the bottom of the esophagus and the top of the stomach. As food and liquid are swallowed, the muscles of the esophagus move it through down to the LES, which then opens to allow items to pass through.
What Does The Lower Esophageal Sphincter Do?
Think of the LES as a doorway within your esophagus. It opens up to let things pass, and closes to keep things out. More specifically, the lower esophageal sphincter's primary function is to open and close as food, liquid, and mucus pass through. It is also designed to prevent food and stomach acid from backing up into the esophagus. When working correctly, you won’t even notice its effects on your everyday life. When it is not, however, a malfunctioning LES can create many uncomfortable conditions.
What Happens When The LES Doesn't Work Properly?
When the LES doesn't work as intended, it can result in various digestive issues. Sometimes the LES is too loose or too short to work properly. Other times it may tighten and refuse to open.
Some of the most common LES issues are:
GERD (gastrointestinal reflux disease) - Chronic acid reflux disease occurs when acid frequently backs up into the esophagus due to a loose LES, causing pain, heartburn, and other symptoms.
Achalasia - A disorder where the LES is too tight and doesn't open properly to allow food and liquid through.
LPR (Laryngopharyngeal reflux disease) - When acid continually backs up into the throat, causing hoarseness and irritation.
Acid Reflux - When stomach acid backs up into your esophagus because the LES doesn't close properly.
These are just a few of the issues that can result when the LES is not working correctly. Some of these issues can be solved with a minimally invasive procedure. Talk to your doctor about your options.
Where To Go For Help
If you suffer from frequent heartburn or other reflux symptoms, one of these conditions might be to blame. The best course of action is to speak with a reflux specialist— Tampa Bay Reflux Center has helped many throughout the Bay Area settle their reflux problems once and for all. Contact us today to schedule a consultation!