Primary Causes of Acid Reflux Explained
How the Lower Oesophageal Sphincter Works
The lower oesophageal sphincter (LES) acts as a valve between your oesophagus and stomach. When functioning properly, it opens to allow food into the stomach and closes to prevent acid from flowing backwards. When this muscle weakens or relaxes inappropriately, stomach acid can escape into the oesophagus, causing the burning sensation known as heartburn.
Dietary Triggers That Cause Acid Reflux
Certain foods and beverages are known to trigger acid reflux symptoms. Spicy foods, tomatoes, citrus fruits, chocolate, caffeine, and alcohol can all relax the LES or increase stomach acid production. Fatty and fried foods delay stomach emptying, increasing pressure that may force acid upwards. Large meals can also overwhelm the stomach's capacity, creating pressure that pushes acid into the oesophagus.
Lifestyle Factors Contributing to Acid Reflux
Excess weight puts pressure on the abdomen, pushing stomach contents upwards. Smoking weakens the LES and reduces saliva production, which normally helps neutralise acid. Eating late at night or lying down soon after meals allows gravity to work against you, making reflux more likely. Tight clothing around the waist can also increase abdominal pressure.
Medical Conditions That Cause Acid Reflux
A hiatus hernia occurs when part of the stomach pushes up through the diaphragm, disrupting normal LES function. Pregnancy hormones relax smooth muscle, including the LES, whilst the growing baby creates additional pressure. Gastroparesis, delayed stomach emptying, can increase reflux risk. Certain medications including NSAIDs, calcium channel blockers, and some antidepressants may contribute to symptoms.
When to Consider Medical Treatment
If lifestyle modifications don't provide adequate relief, prescription medications may be recommended. Proton pump inhibitors like omeprazole work by reducing stomach acid production, giving the oesophagus time to heal. EverydayMeds offers several acid reflux treatments including omeprazole 20mg capsules, lansoprazole, and pantoprazole. H2 blockers like famotidine provide an alternative approach by blocking histamine receptors that trigger acid production.
Understanding Your Triggers
Keeping a food and symptom diary can help identify personal triggers. Common patterns include symptoms occurring 1-3 hours after eating trigger foods, worse symptoms when lying down, and relief from antacids. Understanding your specific triggers allows for targeted management strategies alongside appropriate medical treatment when needed.
