Are you no stranger to the discomfort of 'heartburn' after a meal, wondering why this keeps happening? You could be dealing with a pervasive condition known as acid reflux or 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 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–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 are questioning the causes of acid reflux, remember that the primary cause is here the poor functioning of the LES. Though, there are also secondary sources that can exacerbate this problem.
Other root 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 key causal factor as it can impair the function 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, although the underlying cause of acid reflux is the dysfunction of the LES, there exist many secondary triggers that can exacerbate this issue. Being aware of these causes can significantly improve your ability to prevent and manage this potentially distressing condition.