They say you are what you eat. In the case of acid reflex that’s very true; however, there are other acid reflux causes that it’s important to consider. Acid reflux is a harmful chronic disease that is caused by a number of different factors.
People who suffer with acid reflux feel the discomfort caused when the stomach’s caustic fluids back up. This acid reflux response happens when the lower esophageal sphincter, or LES muscle, fails to function properly. Located at the base of the esophagus, these muscles provide a method of opening and closing the passageway into the stomach.
When LES muscles become weak, they can no longer close completely. As a result, acids from the stomach find a way up into the esophagus.
Some people suffer acid reflux as a result of an esophagus abnormality. While different parts of the esophagus can become malformed, the two most common abnormalities leading to acid reflux are ‘peristalsis’ and a condition known as ‘adult-ringed esophagus’. If a person has adult-ringed esophagus, small rings form in the throat that inhibit the person from swallowing properly.
When the stomach fails to function properly, acid reflux can occur. More than fifty percent of all people with acid reflux suffer as a result of impaired stomach muscles that do not respond well to stimuli. These weak muscles can mean that the stomach retains its contents for an extended period of time, which can lead to a backup of acids in the esophagus.
Hiatal hernias are another reason that one may develop acid reflux. The hiatus is a hole located in the diaphragm that helps to secure the passageway between the esophagus and the stomach. The hiatus is usually tight and keeps the organs separate. When the hiatus becomes weakened, it can loosen up and cause the small part of the stomach to actually protrude through the hole. If this happens, a hiatal hernia is said to have occurred. While hiatal hernias are not fully responsible for acid reflux, they may lead to a lack of functioning in the LES muscle, which leads to acid reflux.
When diagnosing acid reflux causes, doctors must consider other underlying conditions such as asthma and diabetes. At lease half of all asthma sufferers are known to experience acid reflux, however it’s not clear which disease causes the other.
People with diabetes can suffer with gastroparesis, and must be particularly aware of their eating habits. Gastoparesis is a condition that can cause a delay in the emptying of the stomach, creating a backup in the stomach and, eventually, a buildup of acid in the esophagus.
There are some medications that can play a role in the development of acid reflux. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, or NSAIDs, can cause acid reflux to develop or worsen the condition in those who already have it. These common drugs are sold over the counter under brand names including Advil, Aleve, Motrin and Nuprin. A recent research study suggested that people who use these medications on a regular basis are as many as two times as likely to experience some acid reflux symptoms.
Diet is only partly to blame for acid reflux. Many other factors can contribute to this uncomfortable condition. If you suffer from acid reflux or persistent indigestion, see your doctor for a complete check up to rule out any underlying medical conditions.