Title: Understanding the Underlying Causes of Acid Reflux
Title: Understanding the Underlying Causes of Acid Reflux
Blog Article
Are you no stranger to the discomfort of 'heartburn' after a meal, wondering why this keeps happening? The pain may be associated with a prevalent disorder, often referred to as acid reflux or, medically, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).
Acid reflux is a frequently occurring condition affecting countless individuals across the globe. Before we delve into the triggers of acid reflux, it's vital to understand the disorder itself.
Acid reflux transpires when the LES (Lower Esophageal Sphincter)–the muscular valve where the esophagus joins the 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 cause a fiery sensation known as 'heartburn.'
So, if you are questioning the causes of acid reflux, remember that the primary cause is the abnormal functioning of the LES. However, several factors can compound this problem.
Among the additional 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 consuming excessive amounts 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, 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 primary culprit behind acid reflux is an ill-functioning LES. However, many other factors can increase the severity what causes acid reflux and frequency of this condition. Knowing these triggers can certainly assist in the prevention and efficient alleviation of this discomforting disorder.
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