Causes of Acid Reflux – When Acid Reflux is More than a Digestive Disorder

Acid reflux also known as GERD or Gastro Esophageal Reflux Disease is a minor disease that can cause serious long term health conditions. The causes of acid reflux may mean more than what we ordinarily think

Since acid reflux can eventually pose serious health threats, it is best to find a remedy as soon as possible. As always, prevention is better than cure; knowing the causes of acid reflux will lead us to the right medication.

Click here to discover how you can get rid of your acid reflux naturally.

The following are some causes, we as ordinary individuals are not aware of:

Acid Reflux due to LES

Sometimes, acid reflux is caused by a defective lower esophageal sphincter. The lower esophageal sphincter is a ring of muscle that acts as a valve to separate the esophagus from the stomach. A malfunctioning lower esophageal sphincter or LES for short can cause the contents of the stomach to leak back into the esophagus.

A defective LES can be hereditary and can be passed on from generation to generation. It can also be caused by an unhealthy lifestyle and eating habits.

Acid Reflux due to Hiatal Hernia

Hiatal hernia can also be a culprit for causing acid reflux. Generally, an hernia is a bodily disorder where certain organs project through cavities or small openings in a person’s body.  In the case of Hiatal  hernia, the stomach protrudes through a small opening in the diaphragm.

The diaphragm is a lining of muscle that separates the chest from the lower body. It is situated just below the ribs and its main purpose is to facilitate breathing. The hernia itself can be painful; even worse is when it becomes a cause for acid reflux.

Acid Reflux due to Pregnancy

Pregnancy can also trigger acid reflux disorders. This is why most women suffer from morning sickness during pregnancy. It is a situation in which they tend to throw up after getting up from bed. The reason for this is that the infant is pushing the stomach upwards and tend to force the contents out.

Since it is a condition caused by pregnancy, acidity is not the main culprit and antacids will have no relieving effect. A solution for this is to eat in small batches so as not to fill the stomach to its capacity.

Acid Reflux due to Ulcers

Ulcers and other stomach problems can cause acid reflux. The enzymes do not balance or act at a normal level, so it causes acid build up.  Excessive acid build up can cause hyper acidity which in turn can cause acid reflux. A solution for this can be antacids, herbal medication or other over the counter medication. Still the best way to prevent ulcers and enzyme disorders is to maintain a regular eating pattern and by having a balanced diet.

Acid Reflux due Asthma

Asthma can also cause acid reflux. This may probably be due to the medication or the constant irritation to the wind passage. For the treatment part, the muscle relaxants found in the medication itself can cause the LES to relax and release some of the stomach’s contents back to the esophagus. While the irritation can cause reflux by pushing the stomach upwards while coughing.

Most of the causes of acid reflux listed above can be avoided by proper diet and leading a healthy lifestyle. Nevertheless, even if you follow a healthy diet these symptoms may still occur.  Just make sure that when you experience these problems, consult a doctor immediately to figure out the cause. If you know what’s causing your acid reflux then it is much easier to look for a suitable remedy for your case.