Acid reflux disease, also known as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), is a condition that occurs when the contents of the stomach flow back into the esophagus, causing symptoms such as heartburn, regurgitation, and chest discomfort.

Causes

The primary cause of acid reflux disease is a malfunctioning lower esophageal sphincter (LES).

The LES is a ring of muscle at the bottom of the esophagus that acts as a valve, opening to allow food and drink to pass into the stomach and then closing to prevent the contents of the stomach from flowing back up into the esophagus. If the LES doesn’t close properly, stomach acid and other contents can reflux back into the esophagus, causing acid reflux disease.

Other factors that can contribute to the development of acid reflux disease include:.

1. Hiatal Hernia

A hiatal hernia occurs when the upper part of the stomach bulges through the diaphragm into the chest cavity. This can weaken the LES and cause acid reflux disease.

2. Pregnancy

Pregnancy can cause changes in hormone levels and physical changes in the body that can increase the risk of acid reflux disease.

3. Obesity

Obesity can put pressure on the stomach, causing the contents to reflux back into the esophagus.

4. Smoking

Smoking can weaken the LES and increase the risk of acid reflux disease.

5. Certain Foods and Beverages

Foods and beverages that can increase the risk of acid reflux disease include spicy foods, tomato-based products, chocolate, caffeine, alcohol, and fatty foods.

6. Medications

Some medications can increase the risk of acid reflux disease, including aspirin, ibuprofen, certain muscle relaxers, and blood pressure medications.

Symptoms

The most common symptom of acid reflux disease is heartburn, which is a burning sensation in the chest that often occurs after eating or lying down. Other symptoms of acid reflux disease include:.

1. Regurgitation

Regurgitation is the feeling of acid or other stomach contents coming up into the mouth or throat.

2. Difficulty Swallowing

Difficulty swallowing, also known as dysphagia, can occur as a result of inflammation or narrowing of the esophagus.

3. Chest Pain

Chest pain, which can feel like a heart attack, is a less common symptom of acid reflux disease.

4. Chronic Cough

A chronic cough can be a symptom of acid reflux disease, particularly if it occurs at night or after eating.

5. Laryngitis

Laryngitis, which is inflammation of the voice box, can be caused by acid reflux disease.

6. Tooth Erosion

Chronic acid reflux can erode tooth enamel, leading to dental problems.

Treatment

Treatment for acid reflux disease can include lifestyle changes, medication, and surgery.

Lifestyle Changes

Lifestyle changes that can help manage acid reflux disease include:.

1. Losing Weight

Losing weight can reduce pressure on the stomach and improve symptoms of acid reflux disease.

2. Eating Smaller Meals

Eating smaller meals can reduce the amount of food in the stomach and improve symptoms of acid reflux disease.

3. Avoiding Trigger Foods

Avoiding foods and beverages that can trigger acid reflux disease can help reduce symptoms. Common trigger foods include spicy foods, tomato-based products, chocolate, caffeine, alcohol, and fatty foods.

4. Elevating the Head of the Bed

Elevating the head of the bed can help prevent stomach acid from flowing back into the esophagus.

Medication

Medications that can help reduce symptoms of acid reflux disease include:.

1. Antacids

Antacids can neutralize stomach acid and provide relief from heartburn and other symptoms of acid reflux disease.

2. H2 Blockers

H2 blockers can reduce the amount of acid produced by the stomach and provide longer-lasting relief from symptoms.

3. Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs)

PPIs can reduce the amount of acid produced by the stomach and provide long-term relief from symptoms.

Surgery

In severe cases of acid reflux disease, surgery may be necessary to strengthen the LES and prevent stomach contents from flowing back into the esophagus.