What Causes Acid Reflux and How Can It Be Treated?
Understanding Acid Reflux Mechanisms
Acid reflux occurs when the lower oesophageal sphincter (LES), a muscular ring that acts as a valve between the stomach and oesophagus, becomes weakened or relaxes inappropriately. When functioning properly, this sphincter opens to allow food into the stomach and closes to prevent stomach contents from flowing backward. Various factors can compromise this natural barrier, leading to the characteristic burning sensation and discomfort associated with heartburn.
Common Dietary Triggers
Certain foods and beverages are well-known triggers for acid reflux symptoms. Spicy foods, tomatoes, citrus fruits, chocolate, caffeine, and fatty meals can all contribute to increased acid production or sphincter relaxation. Alcohol consumption, particularly wine and spirits, can also weaken the LES and increase stomach acid production. Large meal portions place additional pressure on the stomach, making reflux more likely to occur.
Lifestyle and Environmental Factors
Being overweight or obese increases abdominal pressure, pushing stomach contents upward toward the oesophagus. Smoking weakens the LES and reduces saliva production, which normally helps neutralise acid. Lying down or bending over soon after eating can also promote reflux by reducing the effect of gravity in keeping stomach contents down. Tight clothing around the waist may similarly increase abdominal pressure.
Medical Conditions Contributing to Reflux
Several medical conditions can predispose individuals to acid reflux. Hiatal hernia, where part of the stomach protrudes through the diaphragm, is strongly associated with GORD. Pregnancy increases reflux risk due to hormonal changes and increased abdominal pressure. Gastroparesis, a condition affecting stomach emptying, can also contribute to reflux symptoms. Some autoimmune conditions affecting connective tissue may weaken the oesophageal sphincter.
Medication-Related Causes
Certain medications can trigger or worsen acid reflux symptoms. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen can irritate the stomach lining and increase acid production. Some blood pressure medications, particularly calcium channel blockers, may relax the LES. Bisphosphonates used for osteoporosis can cause oesophageal irritation, whilst some antibiotics may disrupt the stomach's protective mechanisms.
Treatment Options with Acid Reflux Tablets
When lifestyle modifications aren't sufficient, acid reflux tablets can provide effective symptom relief. Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) like omeprazole work by significantly reducing stomach acid production, allowing damaged tissue to heal. EverydayMeds offers several PPI options including Omeprazole 20mg capsules, which are often the first-line treatment for moderate to severe symptoms. Losec MUPS provides a branded alternative with the same active ingredient in a dispersible formulation.
For those requiring different PPI options, lansoprazole, pantoprazole, and esomeprazole tablets are also available through EverydayMeds, each with slightly different characteristics that may suit individual needs. H2 receptor antagonists like famotidine offer an alternative approach by blocking histamine receptors that stimulate acid production, and may be suitable for people who cannot tolerate PPIs or require additional acid suppression.
