The Ins And Outs Of Acid Reflux Causes
Before finding the cure, it is important to first understand the acid
reflux causes. Acid reflux disease, also know as GERD or gasroesophageal
reflux disease, is caused by an esophageal sphincter that does not
function properly. This sphincter is a muscular ring at the bottom of
the esophagus that prevents stomach contents from backing up into the
throat and mouth. If that sphincter is not working right, the acids from
the stomach can come back into the esophagus causing painful heartburn,
burning in the throat, and an acidic taste in the mouth. It can be very
uncomfortable for the patient, and if it is not identified and treated,
it might also cause damage to the esophagus and larynx.
There are a number a possible contributing causes of acid reflux
disease, although doctors are still not sure what the original cause
might be. Some of the things that directly contribute to acid reflux
symptoms are smoking, overeating, stress and a diet that is high in salt
and fatty foods. A hiatal hernia is a condition that can also exacerbate
the symptoms of acid reflux, as does obesity and pregnancy. All three of
these conditions put additional pressure on the abdominal area which can
be why they are all considered causes of acid reflux. Peptic ulcers and
an insufficiency of digestive enzymes in the stomach can also be
conditions that cause stomach acids to build up and back up. It has also
been found that people with asthma and diabetes have a higher incidence
of acid reflux disease.
Preventable Causes Of Acid Reflux Disease
A person can experience acid reflux symptoms after eating a large meal.
This can be easily prevented by cutting down portion sizes. Since
certain foods may act as triggers for symptoms, keeping a food diary and
learning to avoid foods that are potential acid reflux causes will help
keep the problems associated with the disease in check. Some doctors
will recommend staying away from caffeine, alcohol and smoking. While
these are not actual acid reflux causes, they all can make current
symptoms worse. Another way to reduce the uncomfortable effects of acid
reflux is by avoiding lying down after eating a meal. This position can
make it easier for digestive acids to move in the wrong direction. You
can also elevate your upper body at night while sleeping to avoid waking
up with painful heartburn in the morning, or even in the middle of the
night.
Although there are many causes of acid reflux disease, there are also
many treatment possibilities to keep the symptoms at bay. With a little
investigation and a doctor’s help, many acid reflux sufferers are
finding relief from the pain and discomfort of acid reflux disease.
|
