Acid reflux is caused primarily by the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), a circular muscle at the bottom of the esophagus, relaxing inappropriately or weakening. This allows stomach acid to flow back (reflux) into the esophagus, irritating its lining and causing symptoms like heartburn
. Several factors contribute to this malfunction and increase the risk of acid reflux:
- Hiatal hernia: When part of the stomach bulges through the diaphragm into the chest, making it easier for acid to reflux
- Obesity: Excess body weight increases pressure on the stomach, promoting reflux
- Pregnancy: Hormonal changes and pressure from the growing fetus can weaken the LES
- Lifestyle factors: Smoking, eating large or fatty meals, lying down soon after eating, alcohol, caffeine, chocolate, spicy foods, and certain medications can aggravate reflux
- Delayed stomach emptying and connective tissue disorders like scleroderma can also contribute
- Other possible contributors include stress, certain hormones, and bacterial infections like H. pylori , though some links are less definitive
In summary, acid reflux results from LES dysfunction combined with factors that increase stomach acid or pressure, leading to acid backing up into the esophagus and causing irritation
