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 a frequently occurring condition affecting countless individuals across the globe. But to identify the causes of acid reflux, we must first comprehend what it is.
Acid reflux transpires when the LES (Lower Esophageal Sphincter)–the muscular valve where the esophagus joins the stomach–fails to close properly, allowing the stomach’s acidic contents to reflux, or backflow, into the esophagus. This reflux of stomach acid is corrosive and harmful to 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 malfunctioning of the LES. However, several factors can compound this problem.
Further causes are certain food and drink. Consuming hard-to-digest foods, fatty or greasy foods, spicy food, chocolate, caffeine, and alcoholic beverages could provoke acid reflux. Smoking is another major perpetrator as it can worsen the functioning of the LES.
Overeating or eating too much at one time, especially before bedtime, can also cause acid reflux prominently. Furthermore, bodily states like obesity and pregnancy can boost the chance of suffering from GERD.
Additional probable causes can encompass certain medications, including aspirin and certain muscle relaxants. Stress can also impact the incidence of what causes acid reflux acid reflux, whilst not a direct cause, high levels of stress may stimulate behaviors that can trigger acid reflux.
In summary, although the underlying cause of acid reflux is the dysfunction of the LES, there exist many secondary triggers that can exacerbate this issue. Understanding these causes is an essential step for prevention and effective treatment.