Are you no stranger to the discomfort of 'heartburn' after a meal, wondering why this keeps happening? This discomfort may be an indicator here 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. Before we discuss what provokes this condition, let's first understand what precisely acid reflux is.
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 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 abnormal 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 critical contributor as it can worsen the functioning 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, like aspirin or some 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 can exacerbate this issue. Knowing these triggers can certainly assist in the prevention and efficient alleviation of this discomforting disorder.