Acid reflux link to immune condition?

  

November 20, 2009 (WLS) -- What if stomach acid had nothing to do with acid reflux after all?

Researchers at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center say it's possible that the condition is actually caused by an immune response and not burning acid.

Research in animals shows that gastroesophageal reflux disease, or GERD, may be the result of immune system cells causing inflammation. Tissue in the esophagus may release immune chemicals which than attract inflammatory cells. These may then cause the heartburn and chest pain that make GERD so distressing.

More tests in humans are planned, but you can learn more about this research in the journal Gastroenterology.

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