Causes of Reflux Acid
Best tips for acid reflux: Acid reflux or gastroesophageal reflux disease are common and uncomfortable digestive issue, affects millions worldwide. Characterized by a burning sensation in the chest, it happens when stomach acid flows back into the esophagus. Understanding the causes behind this condition is crucial to finding helpful remedies and making lifestyle changes to help its symptoms.
Let’s delve into the causes contributing to acid reflux and ways to control it for a better quality of life.
- Weakness in the lower esophageal sphincter (LES): The LES is a muscle ring separating the esophagus from the stomach. When the LES is weak, it can allow stomach acid to back up into the esophagus.
- Hiatal hernia: A hiatal hernia occurs when the upper part of the stomach pushes up through the diaphragm, a muscle that separates the chest from the abdomen. This can put pressure on the LES and make it more likely for acid to back up into the esophagus.
- Certain foods and beverages: Some foods and drinks can irritate the esophagus lining and make it more likely for acid to back up. These foods include fatty, spicy, acidic, and carbonated beverages.
- Being overweight or obese: Being overweight or obese can increase the pressure in the abdomen, making it more likely for acid to back up into the esophagus.
- Pregnancy: During pregnancy, the hormones relax the LES, making it more likely for acid to back up into the esophagus.
- Certain medications: Some medications, such as aspirin and ibuprofen, can irritate the esophagus lining and make it more likely for acid to back up.
- Medical conditions: Certain conditions, such as GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease), can increase the risk of reflux acid issues.
If you are experiencing reflux acid issues, you must see a doctor to get a diagnosis and treatment. There are several ways to manage reflux acid issues, like lifestyle changes, medications, and surgery.
Best tips for acid reflux or gastroesophageal reflux disease
Here are some lifestyle changes that can help to handle reflux acid issues:
- If you are overweight or obese, it may be helpful to lose weight.
- Avoid foods and beverages that begin your signs.
- Eat less, more regular meals.
- Avoid dinner within 3 hours of bedtime.
- Elevate the head of your bed by 6 to 8 inches.
- Quit smoking.
Final Thought
Various medications are effective in managing acid reflux. In certain situations, reflux acid problems may need surgical intervention. Generally, surgery is advisable for individuals who have not experienced success with alternative therapies. To know more, consult Dhanwantaree specialist Dr. Ashok Acharya.