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 an extraordinarily widespread and regularly occurring ailment 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–weakens or relaxes inappropriately, enabling stomach acid to flow what causes acid reflux back into the esophagus. This reflux of stomach acid agitates and damages 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 the poor functioning of the LES. Though, there are also secondary sources that can exacerbate 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 consuming excessive amounts 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, such as aspirin and specific 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. Knowing these triggers can certainly assist in the prevention and efficient alleviation of this discomforting disorder.