If you are a sufferer of Gastroesophageal reflux disease, you are probably wondering what is causing it. Family history, diet, and lifestyle choices all contribute to this disease. But let’s first get to the root of the problem.
Direct Cause of Gerd
You have Gerd because the lower esophageal sphincter, LES, (the muscle between the stomach and esophagus) is not functioning properly by allowing food and acidic contents back into the esophagus. The esophagus does not have the same protective lining that the stomach has, and the acid is causing it to swell, which causes you to have indigestion.
Medical Problems that May be Causing your Lower Esophageal Sphincter to be Weak
- Stomach Problems- your stomach may digest the food too slowly, which increases pressure on the LES
- Medications- many drugs, both over the counter and prescription, are included in this category. Some of these can put you at risk or may worsen symptoms for those that already have it.
- Pregnancy- Hormones produced during pregnancy causes the LES to relax and can cause Gerd. This is quite normal.
- Hiatal Hernia- this is when the stomach protrude through the diaphragm. This may have symptoms of Gerd to worsen.
Lifestyle Problems that can Contribute to Gerd
- Excessive Alcohol Consumption
- Smoking- this causes the LES to relax and acidic contents of the stomach can splash back up
- Eating large meals- this increases the odds of contents going back into the esophagus. Learn to eat smaller meals but more frequently
- Excess weight- people who are obese are more likely to contract gerd than those that aren’t. Lose some weight with proper exercise