Title: Decoding the Main Causes of Acid Reflux
Title: Decoding the Main Causes of Acid Reflux
Blog Article
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 a frequently occurring 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 happens 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 inquiring 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 foods, spicy food, chocolate, caffeine, and alcoholic beverages could provoke acid reflux. Smoking is another key causal factor as it can hamper the operation of the LES.
Overeating or eating too much at one time, especially before bedtime, can also be a significant cause of acid reflux. Furthermore, bodily states like obesity and pregnancy can boost the chance of suffering from GERD.
Other potential causes 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 what causes acid reflux can exacerbate this issue. Being aware of these causes can significantly improve your ability to prevent and manage this potentially distressing condition.
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