Are you no stranger to the discomfort of 'heartburn' after a meal, wondering why this keeps happening? 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 countless individuals across the globe. But to identify the causes of acid reflux, we must first comprehend what it is.
The condition of acid reflux occurs when the LES (Lower Esophageal Sphincter)–the muscle at the junction of the esophagus and stomach–weakens or relaxes inappropriately, enabling stomach acid to flow back into the esophagus. This reflux of stomach acid irritates and injures 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 poor functioning of the LES. Though, there are also secondary sources that can exacerbate this problem.
Other root causes are certain nutritional intake and drinks. 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 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.
Other potential causes can encompass certain medications, like aspirin or some muscle relaxants. Stress can also impact the incidence of acid reflux, whilst what causes acid reflux 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.