Have you ever experienced the burning sensation in your chest and wondered what could be causing it? You could be dealing with a pervasive condition known as acid reflux or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).
Acid reflux is an extraordinarily widespread and regularly occurring ailment affecting millions worldwide. But to identify the causes of acid reflux, we must first comprehend what it is.
Acid reflux transpires when the lower esophageal sphincter (LES)–the muscular gateway at the end of the esophagus, where it opens into the stomach–loses its tightness, causing the stomach’s acid to flow back up into the esophagus. This reflux of stomach acid irritates and injures the lining of the esophagus and can cause a fiery sensation known as 'heartburn.'
So, if you are questioning the causes of acid reflux, remember that the primary cause is the malfunctioning of the LES. But this condition can be aggravated by numerous additional factors.
Among the additional causes are certain food and drink. Consuming hard-to-digest foods, fatty or greasy meals, tangy foods, chocolate, coffee, and alcohol may induce acid reflux. Smoking is another major perpetrator as it can worsen the functioning of the LES.
Overeating or consuming excessive amounts at one time, especially before bedtime, can also greatly contribute to the occurrence of acid reflux. Moreover, obesity and pregnancy are also known to increase the risk of 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 what causes acid reflux the severity and frequency of this condition. Knowing these triggers can certainly assist in the prevention and efficient alleviation of this discomforting disorder.