Are you no stranger to the discomfort of 'heartburn' after a meal, wondering why this keeps happening? The pain may be associated with a prevalent disorder, often referred to as acid reflux or, medically, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).
Acid reflux is intimately common and widely experienced affecting a large number of people globally. But to identify the causes of acid what causes acid reflux reflux, we must first comprehend what it is.
Acid reflux happens when the lower esophageal sphincter (LES)–the muscle at the junction of the esophagus and stomach–fails to close properly, allowing the stomach’s acidic contents to reflux, or backflow, into the esophagus. This reflux of stomach acid irritates and injures the lining of the esophagus and can result in a burning discomfort known as 'heartburn.'
So, if you're thinking about the causes of acid reflux, remember that the primary cause is the poor functioning of the LES. Though, there are also secondary sources that can exacerbate this problem.
Further causes are certain diet and beverages. Consuming hard-to-digest foods, fatty or greasy meals, spicy foods, chocolate, caffeine, and alcohol can bring about an episode of acid reflux. Smoking is another critical contributor as it can hamper the operation of the LES.
Overeating or eating too much at one time, especially before bedtime, can also greatly contribute to the occurrence of acid reflux. Furthermore, bodily states like obesity and pregnancy can boost the chance of suffering from GERD.
Further potential triggers can encompass certain medications, including aspirin and certain muscle relaxants. Stress can also impact the incidence of acid reflux, whilst not a direct cause, high levels of stress may stimulate behaviors that can trigger acid reflux.
In summary, the primary culprit behind acid reflux is an ill-functioning LES. However, many other factors can increase the severity and frequency of this condition. Understanding these causes is an essential step for prevention and effective treatment.