The Primary Causes of Acid Reflux Explained
How Your Digestive System Normally Works
To understand acid reflux causes, it helps to know how digestion typically functions. The lower oesophageal sphincter (LES) acts as a one-way valve between your oesophagus and stomach. When working properly, it opens to allow food into the stomach and closes tightly to prevent stomach contents from flowing backward. When this mechanism fails, acid reflux occurs.
Primary Physical Causes
The most common physical cause is a weakened or relaxed LES. This can result from various factors including pregnancy, certain medications, or anatomical issues. Hiatal hernia, where part of the stomach pushes through the diaphragm, is another significant physical cause that affects how the LES functions.
Dietary Triggers That Cause Acid Reflux
Certain foods can trigger acid reflux by either relaxing the LES or increasing stomach acid production. Common culprits include fatty foods, chocolate, peppermint, citrus fruits, tomatoes, onions, garlic, and spicy foods. Beverages like coffee, alcohol, and carbonated drinks are also frequent triggers. Large meals can put additional pressure on the LES, making reflux more likely to occur.
Lifestyle Factors Contributing to GERD
Obesity significantly increases acid reflux risk by putting pressure on the abdomen and potentially affecting LES function. Smoking weakens the LES and increases acid production. Eating late at night or lying down soon after meals allows gravity to work against you, making reflux more probable. Stress and lack of sleep may also worsen symptoms in some individuals.
Medical Conditions and Medications
Gastroparesis, a condition causing delayed stomach emptying, can lead to acid reflux. Pregnancy often causes temporary reflux due to hormonal changes and increased abdominal pressure. Certain medications including NSAIDs, calcium channel blockers, and some antidepressants may contribute to reflux symptoms.
When to Consider Treatment Options
If lifestyle modifications don't provide adequate relief, medications may be necessary. Proton pump inhibitors like omeprazole work by reducing stomach acid production, allowing the oesophagus to heal. EverydayMeds offers several effective treatments including Omeprazole 20mg Capsules, Losec MUPS, and alternatives like lansoprazole and pantoprazole. For those who don't respond well to PPIs, H2 blockers such as famotidine tablets provide an alternative approach to managing acid production.
