Have you ever experienced the burning sensation in your chest and wondered what could be causing it? 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 what causes acid reflux condition affecting a large number of people globally. 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 muscle at the junction of the esophagus and stomach–loses its tightness, causing the stomach’s acid to flow back up into the esophagus. This reflux of stomach acid is corrosive and harmful to the lining of the esophagus and can cause a fiery sensation known as 'heartburn.'
So, if you are inquiring about the causes of acid reflux, remember that the primary cause is the malfunctioning of the LES. However, several factors can compound this problem.
Among the additional causes are certain food and drink. 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 major perpetrator 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. Moreover, obesity and pregnancy are also known to increase the risk of GERD.
Further potential triggers can encompass certain medications, like aspirin or some 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 key instigator of acid reflux is the malfunctioning of the LES, but there are numerous other external factors that can compel this condition to worsen. Being aware of these causes can significantly improve your ability to prevent and manage this potentially distressing condition.