Do you often encounter a burning sensation in your lower chest, especially after having your meal? You could be dealing with a pervasive condition known as acid reflux or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).
Acid reflux is intimately common and widely experienced affecting millions worldwide. Before we discuss what provokes this condition, let's first understand what precisely acid reflux is.
Acid reflux transpires when the lower esophageal sphincter (LES)–the muscular gateway at the end of the esophagus, where it opens into the stomach–fails to close properly, allowing the stomach’s acidic contents to reflux, or backflow, into the esophagus. This reflux of stomach acid is corrosive and harmful to the lining of the esophagus and can result in a burning discomfort known as 'heartburn.'
So, if you're thinking about the causes of acid reflux, remember that the primary cause is the poor functioning of the LES. However, several factors can compound this problem.
Among the additional causes are certain diet and beverages. Consuming hard-to-digest foods, fatty or greasy foods, spicy food, chocolate, caffeine, and alcoholic beverages could provoke acid reflux. Smoking is another major perpetrator as it can worsen the functioning of the LES.
Overeating or consuming excessive amounts at one time, especially before bedtime, can also greatly contribute to the occurrence of acid reflux. Furthermore, bodily states like obesity and pregnancy can boost the chance of suffering from GERD.
Other potential causes can encompass certain medications, including aspirin and certain muscle relaxants. Stress can also impact the incidence of acid reflux, whilst not a direct cause, high levels of stress may stimulate behaviors that can trigger acid reflux.
In summary, although the underlying cause of acid reflux is the dysfunction of the LES, there exist many secondary triggers that can exacerbate this issue. Knowing these triggers can certainly assist in the prevention and efficient alleviation of this discomforting disorder. here