What condition can cause gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)?

Hiatal hernias are a significant factor contributing to gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). When a hiatal hernia occurs, a portion of the stomach bulges through the diaphragm into the chest cavity. This anatomical change can interfere with the normal function of the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), which is responsible for maintaining the barrier between the stomach and the esophagus. If the LES does not function properly, stomach contents, including acid, can easily flow back into the esophagus, causing the symptoms associated with GERD.

This relationship highlights the importance of understanding how certain structural abnormalities in the body can lead to digestive disorders. In discussing other conditions, while gallbladder disease, peptic ulcers, and diverticulitis can contribute to gastrointestinal discomfort and various symptoms, they do not have the same direct mechanical involvement with the LES that hiatal hernias do concerning GERD.