When Does Physiologic Reflux Occur?

Figure 6. Continuous esophageal pH monitoring demonstrating physiological reflux. Physiologic reflux (reflux in normal individuals) is generally brief in duration, relatively infrequent, and occurs almost exclusively after meals and is caused by a sudden relaxation of the LES that is not induced by swallowing.

What is physiologic reflux?

Physiological reflux should be defined as the amount of reflux which occurs in a normal subject, who does not complain of reflux symptoms and has no endoscopic esophagitis. This physiological reflux can be quantified by numerical analysis of a 24-h pH recording.

What causes acid reflux physiology?

Acid reflux occurs when the sphincter muscle at the lower end of your esophagus relaxes at the wrong time, allowing stomach acid to back up into your esophagus. This can cause heartburn and other signs and symptoms. Frequent or constant reflux can lead to gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).