Acid Reflux Causes
Acid reflux refers to the formation of gases and other acidic substances in the stomach, caused by the acid of the stomach finding its way back into the esophageal cavity, resulting in severe pain and/or burning sensation. Referred to as Heartburn Disease in a layman’s language, it is characterized by a stinging sensation along the chest cavity. In medical parlance, it is called the Gastro Esophageal Reflux Disease (GERD).
GERD is a common phenomenon and many people are known to suffer from it, but most of them do not bother to investigate its causes. Most of them just opt for the easier-way-out i.e. take an antacid, a prescription drug or try household remedies such as a reflux diet, unaware of the need to ascertain what is causing them this chronic, painful heartburn.
The main culprit is higher than usual levels of acid. All of us get a reflux and there is nothing unusual or abnormal about it. But patients suffering from this malady have higher of acid content, which makes it torturous for the patient and also damaging the esophageal lining in the long run.
Lower Esophageal Sphincter (ELS) pressure is another contributing factor. It is more commonly seen among pregnant women, since the growing baby in the womb exerts pressure on the mother’s abdomen.
Acid reflux may also be sparked off by esophageal contractions, causing the regurgitated contents to go back all the way into the food pipe. The resultant pain and discomfort is something for which the medical science has no quick cure. However, a kind and considerate doctor can, through careful handling, alleviate his patient’s trauma.
Hiatal hernias may also cause acid reflux. Hernias are caused by the upper portion of the stomach protruding into the chest, through a hole in the diaphragm. This can cause severe pain and acidity to the patient. Hiatal hernias cause the deterioration of the LES (a sphincter which connects the esophagus with the stomach) which is responsible for holding the contents of the stomach back, causing acid reflux.
Slow metabolism may also add up to acid reflux. People with weak digestive systems are, therefore, more susceptible to it. Tests and research have led to some interesting breakthroughs- one of them being the fact that medicines available to cure this malady might actually be the causes of it.
There are many other contributing factors to GERD besides the ones listed above. The proverbial silver lining in the dark cloud for patients suffering from acid reflux is that the doctor can help them ascertain what exactly is causing them severe acidity, after carefully studying the patient. Besides this, the tortured soul may also want to try out a few natural remedies and household cures to provide him succor. The point of these treatments is that patients can finally break free from heartburn and discomfort.
