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 millions worldwide. Before we discuss read more what provokes this condition, let's first understand what precisely acid reflux 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 irritates and injures 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 abnormal functioning of the LES. Though, there are also secondary sources that can exacerbate this problem.
Other root causes are certain food and drink. Consuming hard-to-digest foods, fatty or greasy foods, spicy food, chocolate, caffeine, and alcoholic beverages could provoke acid reflux. Smoking is another critical contributor as it can impair the function of the LES.
Overeating or consuming excessive amounts at one time, especially before bedtime, can also cause acid reflux prominently. Furthermore, bodily states like obesity and pregnancy can boost the chance of suffering from GERD.
Additional probable 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, the primary culprit behind acid reflux is an ill-functioning LES. However, many other factors can increase the severity and frequency of this condition. Knowing these triggers can certainly assist in the prevention and efficient alleviation of this discomforting disorder.