Acid reflux is a chronic, harmful condition that can be caused by a number of different things. This article will look at what could be leading to the problem.
One of the most common causes of acid reflux is a problem with the function of the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) muscles. These muscles are at the base of the esophagus, working as the “gatekeeper” to the stomach. If the muscles aren’t working properly, they may not be able to fully close which can result in acid moving from the stomach up into the esophagus.
Abnormalities in the esophagus are another common cause. Several parts of the esophagus can be malformed, but the two most common ones are peristalsis and what is known as adult-ringed esophagus. Adult-ringed esophagus is a condition with small rings in the throat that stop a person from swallowing properly. Improper stomach function is yet another factor that can lead to acid reflux disease.
Over half of the people suffering with acid reflux have stomach muscles that are not able to respond quickly to stimuli. This can lead to extended time periods when the stomach is not emptied, which can in turn lead to a backing up of acid into the esophagus.
Hiatal hernias are another common problem. The hiatus is a hole in the diaphragm that helps to keep the passageway between the stomach and the esophagus secure. It’s normally tight, but if it becomes weakened somehow the muscles can loosen and lead to a small part of the stomach actually protruding through the hiatus.
When this happens, a hiatal hernia is said to have occurred. While hiatal hernias are not fully responsible for acid reflux, they can lead to a lack of functioning in the LES muscles, which, as discussed previously, leads to acid reflux.
On top of all the previous causes, certain drugs can also play a part. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can sometimes lead to acid reflux, as well as aggravating the condition in people who already have it.
These drugs are quite common, and some of the most recognized brands of NSAIDs include Motrin, Nuprin, Advil, and Aleve. A recent research study showed that people who regularly took these medications were as much as two times as likely to experience some symptoms of acid reflux.
Diabetes and asthma are two other things you need to consider. At least 50% of people who suffer from asthma are also known to experience acid reflux, although it is not known which one is actually leading to the other.
People who suffer from diabetes need to be careful of their eating habits. Many diabetics suffer from a condition known as gastroparesis, which is a condition that causes the emptying of the stomach to be delayed. This can again cause the acid in the stomach to backup into the esophagus.
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