Have you ever experienced the burning sensation in your chest and wondered what could be causing it? This discomfort may be an indicator of a common gastrointestinal condition known as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), better known as acid reflux.
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 LES (Lower Esophageal Sphincter)–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 poor functioning of the LES. But this condition can be aggravated by numerous additional factors.
Among the additional causes what causes acid reflux 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 critical contributor as it can impair the function of the LES.
Overeating or eating too much at one time, especially before bedtime, can also cause acid reflux prominently. Moreover, obesity and pregnancy are also known to increase the risk of GERD.
Other potential causes 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, although the underlying cause of acid reflux is the dysfunction of the LES, there exist many secondary triggers that can exacerbate this issue. Knowing these triggers can certainly assist in the prevention and efficient alleviation of this discomforting disorder.