Acid reflux has become one of the most common illnesses in the United States. The causes of the disease are many and varied. The condition usually is brought on by the changing of the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) muscle. With this disease, the acid and other digestive material are allowed to enter the stomach and travel to the esophagus.
The symptoms of acid reflux can vary depending on the individual. Common symptoms include coughing, belching, abdominal pain, vomiting, and excessive belching.
Some of the causes of acid reflux include food allergies, hormonal imbalances, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), chronic bronchitis, pregnancy, obesity, postnasal drip, smoking, and pregnancy. If a person has GERD, it is likely that they will develop acid reflux disease.
There are several common symptoms that can be seen when someone suffers from acid reflux. The most notable ones are excessive belching and coughing. These symptoms occur for different reasons. The frequent belching is often the result of acids traveling through the esophagus, but it may also be the result of several other things.
Some of the causes of this disease are the change in the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) muscle, toxins and bacteria being released into the digestive system, and pressure. When the LES is weakened or becomes irritated, stomach acid can be allowed to flow through into the esophagus and cause inflammation of the tissues there. The walls of the esophagus are made up of mucous membranes that help to keep out acid.
Esophageal mucus in the lining of the esophagus, which is made up of cells, and it helps to stop the passage of acid and other stomach materials. When the lining is irritated, the acids can go through and damage these mucous membranes.
Other causes of acid reflux include obesity, smoking, postnasal drip, and aging. There are some people who are more susceptible to the development of this disease.
In order to prevent acid reflux, it is best to try to maintain a healthy weight. People who are overweight have a greater chance of developing acid reflux because their excess body fat makes it more difficult for the body to process fat. People who are underweight often find that they are more susceptible to the development of this disease as well.
People who eat a diet with a high level of fiber in it have less of a chance of developing the disease. In addition, it is best to eat foods that are higher in fiber such as oats, bran, and whole-grain breads. Fiber-rich foods also reduce the amount of acid that can get through the lower esophageal sphincter (LES).
To prevent the development of acid reflux, many people choose to drink low-calorie fluids such as fruit juices and carbonated beverages. Fruit juices and carbonated beverages are often eliminated from the diet of people who suffer from the disease because they contain high levels of sugar. Low-calorie beverages that are low in acid also should be consumed because they help to prevent the acid from being absorbed.
The causes of acid reflux can be avoided by making some changes to the foods that a person eats and drinks. The most important thing that a person with acid reflux should remember is to avoid triggers.
