Common Causes and Treatments For Acid Reflux?

Answer 1

Acid reflux disease, which is more properly known as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), is a common condition that can either be temporary, or that can develop in a chronic problem with serious ramifications. The basic mechanics behind acid reflux starts with the point where the esophagus connects to the stomach. At this point there is a muscle known as the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) that closes once food passes from the esophagus into the stomach. For various reasons, the LES might not close tightly and could allow acids contained in the stomach to rise up, passing back into the esophagus and eroding it over time.

There are several causes for acid reflux. One is physical, where the LES and the stomach are both located above the diaphragm muscle that usually separates them. This causes pressure that partially opens the LES and allows acid to pass back up into the esophagus. Pregnancy and a specific medical condition known as hiatal hernia can cause this arrangement. Other physical causes are as simple as laying horizontally after eating or bending over at the waist, in which case the pressure from the stomach and gravity draws food through the LES.

Chemical causes for acid reflux usually deal with foods or liquids, like alcohol, that increase the amount of acid that is present in the stomach. In these cases, the increased production causes excess acid to push up through the LES. Certain medications, even common over the counter pain relievers, can also cause the formation of extra acid in the stomach.

Depending on the exact cause of the acid reflux, there are a variety of treatments. For GERD caused by foods, a change in diet and eating habits can usually prevent it from occurring and antacids can reduce the acid produced in the meantime. When medications are involved, an increase in the amount of water or liquids used to take the pills can reduce the effects. If the acid is caused by lying down, then not eating before going to bed or sitting upright for an hour or more after eating can stop the acid from returning to the esophagus. In extreme cases such as a hiatal hernia or other physical disorders, certain types of surgery can be performed in order to restore the LES to its functional state.