Understanding acid reflux and its main triggers

Acid reflux is a common problem, and at least 20 per cent of the US population suffers from this health issue. In most cases biological disorders are known to cause heartburn.

Let’s understand, what causes what causes acid reflux?

The valve at the junction of the food pipe and stomach, known as lower esophagal sphincter (LES) does not work properly for some people. A band of muscles, the LES may not close the entrance of the stomach at the base of the oesophagus, causing the acid produced in the stomach to flow out into the oesophagus.

When this happens, one feels burning sensation in the chest or heart burn, causing a feeling of discomfort. Doctors at refluxmd.com say, those experiencing the symptoms of acid reflux once or twice in a week must see a doctor at the earliest.


While malfunction of LES is the most common cause pointed out by specialists, stomach abnormality called hiatal hernia is also believed to cause it. This happens when LES and the stomach’s upper part moves above the diaphragm, which also keeps the acid from flowing into the food pipe. Hiatal hernia can cause frequent heartburns.


How does it feel?


People suffering with this issue complain of a bitter tasting or sour liquid (acid) getting back to their mouth or stomach. One may burp at intervals, which could also bring back the acid back to mouth or throat. Bloating is a common symptom in some people and also adds to uneasiness.


While acid reflux is sign of digestive system gone haywire, it can also damage the oesophagus. One may feel their food stuck in food pipe, hoarseness and coughing.


Main triggers


There are also several other common causes that are usually overlooked by people, says refluxmd.com. If you suffer from heartburn regularly, you may check the below mentioned factors and get rid of the problem completely:

Obesity: Obese people tend to suffer from acid reflux than people with normal body weight. If you are obese, why not take up weight loss actively? This would resolve many other health problems apart from acid reflux.

Heavy meals: Do you take large meals and go straight to bed or move into resting phase? While bed seems to be the best place after meals, the practice can cause acid reflux. Health experts say, its best to stroll for a while until the food is partly digested and one feels lighter. One can actually avoid nasty heartburns with this small activity and wake up fresh and energetic as one should be after sleep.

Munching snacks close to bedtime: Some people are used to eating 1-2 hours before bedtime which is a healthy habit. However, this good habit may not serve any purpose if they are in the habit of munching snacks close to bedtime. The acid released in the stomach may flow out into the food pipe and cause heartburn.

Foods: Some foods are known to Causes Of Acid Reflux and they should be best avoided

If one is prone to acid reflux. According to refluxmd.com these include chocolate, garlic, onion, citrus fruits, mint, spicy and fatty foods.

Smoking and some drinks: Smoking and alcohol are known to cause several health problems, including Acid Reflux. Further, carbonated drinks, alcohol, tea and coffee may trigger acid reflux.

Other factors

Certain medicines like ibuprofen, aspirin, medicines for blood pressure and muscle relaxers can also increase the occurrence of heartburn. Pregnant women, too, may be troubled with the problem.