Common Causes of Acid Reflux and How to Manage It

Acid reflux, also known as gastroesophageal reflux (GER), is a condition that occurs when stomach acid flows back into the esophagus, causing discomfort and irritation. For some, it’s an occasional annoyance, but for others, chronic acid reflux can significantly impact daily life and lead to a chronic condition called gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) if left unmanaged. This comprehensive guide explores the common causes of acid reflux and offers practical management strategies to help you reduce acid reflux and find relief.

Understanding Acid Reflux

Acid reflux occurs when the lower esophageal sphincter (LES)—a ring of muscle at the bottom of the esophagus—doesn’t close properly or opens too frequently. The lower esophageal sphincter is responsible for maintaining a tight seal between the stomach and the esophagus, preventing stomach acid from escaping. When this muscle weakens or malfunctions, it allows acid to flow backward, leading to heartburn symptoms like a burning feeling in the chest, regurgitation, and irritation of the esophageal lining.

Occasional acid reflux is normal, but frequent episodes may indicate a chronic condition called gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), which requires medical attention. Learning how to address the underlying causes can help relieve symptoms and improve your quality of life.

Common Causes of Acid Reflux

1. Dietary Choices

Certain foods and drinks are known to trigger acid reflux symptoms and contribute to the development of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) by relaxing the LES or increasing stomach acid production. Common culprits include:

• Spicy foods: Chili peppers, hot sauces, and dishes rich in spices.
• Acidic foods: Tomatoes, citrus fruits, and vinegar-based items.
• Fatty or fried foods: These slow down digestion, increasing pressure on the lower esophageal sphincter.
• Caffeinated and carbonated drinks: Coffee, tea, soda, and energy drinks.
• Alcohol: Wine, beer, and cocktails can weaken the LES, allowing stomach acid to irritate the esophagus and cause a burning feeling.

2. Eating Habits

How and when you eat can also contribute to acid reflux. Factors include:

• Eating large meals, which can overwhelm the lower esophageal sphincter.
• Lying down or reclining soon after eating.
• Snacking late at night.

3. Obesity

Excess weight, particularly around the abdomen, increases pressure on the stomach and LES, making acid reflux and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) more likely.

4. Hiatal Hernia

A hiatal hernia occurs when part of the stomach pushes through the diaphragm into the chest cavity. This anatomical abnormality weakens the lower esophageal sphincter and facilitates acid reflux.

5. Smoking

Smoking damages the LES and reduces saliva production, which is necessary for neutralizing stomach acid, increasing the likelihood of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).

6. Pregnancy

Hormonal changes and increased pressure on the stomach during pregnancy can lead to acid reflux, especially in the third trimester. Chronic acid reflux may develop in some pregnant individuals, requiring careful management.

7. Medications

Certain medications, such as pain relievers (aspirin, ibuprofen), sedatives, and some blood pressure drugs, can relax the LES or irritate the esophagus.

8. Stress

While stress does not directly cause acid reflux, it can exacerbate symptoms and lead to poor eating habits that trigger reflux.

9. Underlying Medical Conditions

Some health issues, such as delayed stomach emptying (gastroparesis) and connective tissue disorders like scleroderma, can increase the risk of acid reflux.

Symptoms of Acid Reflux

Recognizing the symptoms of acid reflux and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) can help you identify the condition and seek treatment. Common symptoms include:

• Burning sensation in the chest (heartburn)
• Regurgitation of sour or bitter-tasting acid
• Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia)
• Chronic cough or throat irritation
• Hoarseness or sore throat
• Sensation of a lump in the throat

If you experience these symptoms frequently or severely, consult a healthcare provider for a thorough evaluation.

How to Manage Acid Reflux

Lifestyle Changes

• Adjust Your Diet:
  • Avoid foods and drinks that trigger acid reflux.
  • Incorporate alkaline foods like bananas, melons, and oatmeal to soothe the stomach.
  • Eat smaller, more frequent meals.
• Modify Eating Habits:
  • Eat at least two to three hours before lying down to prevent acid reflux.
  • Chew your food slowly and thoroughly.
• Lose Weight:
  • Maintaining a healthy weight can reduce pressure on the LES and manage GERD symptoms.
• Elevate Your Head While Sleeping:
  • To prevent acid from flowing back into the esophagus, use a wedge pillow or elevate the head of your bed by 6–8 inches.
• Quit Smoking:
  • Smoking cessation improves LES function and overall digestive health.
• Limit Alcohol Consumption:
  • Reduce or eliminate alcohol intake to minimize the likelihood of acid reflux.

Medical Treatments

When lifestyle changes aren’t enough, medical interventions may be necessary for managing gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).

• Over-the-Counter Medications:
  • Antacids: Provide quick relief by neutralizing stomach acid (e.g., Tums, Rolaids).
  • H2 Blockers: Reduce acid production (e.g., ranitidine, famotidine).
  • Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs): Inhibit acid production to promote healing of the esophagus (e.g., omeprazole, lansoprazole).
• Prescription Medications:
  • For severe cases, stronger doses of H2 blockers or PPIs may be prescribed.
• Surgical Options:
  • In rare cases, surgical procedures like fundoplication may be recommended to reinforce the LES.

Natural Remedies

Some individuals find relief using natural remedies alongside conventional treatments:

• Herbal teas: Chamomile or ginger tea can soothe the digestive system.
• Apple cider vinegar: Diluted with water, it may help some people, though evidence is anecdotal.
• Aloe vera juice: Known for its anti-inflammatory properties, it may reduce irritation.

When to See a Doctor

While occasional acid reflux is common, chronic symptoms may indicate GERD or other complications, such as:

• Esophagitis (inflammation of the esophagus)
• Barrett’s esophagus (a precancerous condition)
• Esophageal strictures (narrowing of the esophagus)

Seek medical attention if you experience:

• Frequent or severe heartburn
• Unexplained weight loss
• Difficulty swallowing
• Vomiting blood or black, tarry stools

Preventing Acid Reflux

Prevention is often the best medicine. To minimize your risk of acid reflux:

• Maintain a balanced diet rich in whole grains, lean proteins, and vegetables.
• Stay hydrated, but avoid drinking large amounts of water during meals.
• Exercise regularly but avoid activities that compress the abdomen soon after eating.

Acid reflux is a manageable condition that requires a combination of lifestyle changes, dietary adjustments, and, in some cases, medical treatment. By understanding its causes and triggers, you can take proactive steps to reduce symptoms and improve your quality of life. If you’re struggling with persistent acid reflux, don’t hesitate to consult a healthcare provider. Birmingham Gastro is here to help you find the right treatment plan tailored to your needs.