Reflux is the shortened term to describe gastroesophageal reflux disease, or GERD. It is a condition that affects adults as well as children. The condition occurs when the hydrochloric acid, the acid the stomach produces to help in digestion, backs up into the esophagus causing a burning sensation. Commonly known as heartburn, this happens because of a weakening of the (LES) lower esophageal sphincter. This sphincter muscle is located at the end of the esophagus to prevent the stomach acid from flowing into the esophagus.

There are many factors, not just one, which can contribute to reflux. Many of the reflux causes are due to lifestyle choices. It is easy to see that with a little control of one’s lifestyle the symptoms of reflux can be lessened or greatly reduced. It is different for each individual though and that is important to know when trying to find a solution to the discomfort caused by reflux.

Diet and one’s eating habits are definite contributors to reflux disease. The holidays are especially a time when people tend to overeat. Overeating causes the stomach to stretch which relaxes the lower esophageal sphincter muscle. It would be more beneficial to reflux sufferers if they ate small meals throughout the day in place of one large meal.

The types of food we eat are a big factor to reflux causes. Beverages such as alcohol, carbonated beverages, caffeine drinks such as coffee and tea, and red wine should be avoided by a chronic sufferer. Fatty foods, ice cream, chocolate, spicy foods, citrus fruits, and tomatoes are some basic foods which should be avoided.

Activities after a meal also can be a cause for acid reflux. Avoid eating a meal and then immediately lying down, bending over, exercising, or lifting. It is recommended that a person remain upright for a few hours after a meal.

Smoking can be a reflux cause since it increases the secretion of acid while reducing salivation which is required to help neutralize the acid.

Medical conditions such as a hiatal hernia, Crohn’s disease, some cancer types, gastrointestinal disorders, and diabetes can contribute to symptoms of reflux disease. Medications to watch out for are blood pressure medications, aspirin or ibuprofen, and antihistamines.

Most women during pregnancy can experience acid reflux due to increasing levels of hormones along with the fetal pressure and weight gain. As a pregnancy progresses, the uterus pushes up into the abdomen. When the stomach is pushed into the diaphragm, this can affect the performance of the esophageal sphincter muscle. This can also cause a hiatal hernia. Fortunately, for women, the heartburn sensation is usually over once the pregnancy has ended.

Related Posts

• Reflux Disease Causes, Symptoms and Treatments
• Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease Information
• What is GERD?
• Symptoms of Reflux
• Gastroesophageal Reflux
• Heartburn: Causes and Cures
• Heartburn Information

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