Acid Reflux Causes

It is important for people who suffer from chronic heartburn to become aware of the acid reflux causes. Awareness and knowledge will enable you to avoid the factors that can trigger and aggravate this condition. It should be understood that there is no concrete evidence as to what really causes this condition.

In fact, it is referred to as a symptom of another underlying disorder. It is described as a condition wherein the stomach acid refluxes back into the esophagus usually due to a weakened or relaxed lower esophageal sphincter or LES. The main function of the LES is to keep the contents of the stomach including the gastric acid from going back up into the esophagus. When it does not function properly, acid reflux happens.

There are many acid reflux causes and trigger factors. One of them has something to do with the food you eat. There are actually a lot of foods that can cause and aggravate this condition. Avoiding these foods can help in getting rid of the discomfort.

Some of these foods which had been known to cause this condition are spicy foods, fried or greasy foods, margarine, butter, whole-milk dairy products, creamy sauces and salad dressings, chocolates and fatty meats. There are also beverages that can cause acid reflux and these include coffee, soda, fruit juices that are acidic such as citrus fruits, alcohol and other drinks that contain caffeine.

Stress had also been found to be one of the acid reflux causes. Individuals who are more predisposed to stress, tension and pressure (at work, in school or due to lifestyle) are also more susceptible to acid reflux. People who are already suffering from this condition must learn to modify their lifestyle and deal with the stress properly.

Not having enough hours of quality sleep and rest can also be factors as well as inability to relax and balance the mind and body. Wellness plays a vital role in avoiding this problem. Thus it is important to avoid stressful conditions as much as possible.

Other acid reflux causes are pressure on the stomach, obesity, wearing tight fitting clothes, improper and frequent bending, poor posture and lifting. These are factors that can also contribute to this condition which can be corrected and avoided.

Smoking also triggers the problem. If you are suffering from this condition, you must avoid cigarette smoking at all cost. You must also watch out for second-hand smoke. Stay away from smokers in order to avoid inhaling their cigarette smoke which can trigger and even aggravate this condition.

Other acid reflux causes which may need more serious medical attention are hiatal hernia and intake of certain medications. Such factors are more difficult to control and treat and they may also be more resistant to lifestyle and diet modifications. Medical attention is important and would be more beneficial in such cases.

Understanding the trigger factors for this condition is important in order to effectively treat it and to prevent the pain and discomfort associated with it.