GERD Causes
The causes of GERD, which is persistent heartburn or acid reflux, begins with the esophagus. The function of the Lower Esophageal Sphincter (LES) is to open and close the lower tip of the esophagus, thus stopping the stomach contents from transferring into the esophagus. The LES is comprised of muscles and hormones, and these muscles, like any other muscle in the body, can weaken. Once weakened, the LES is not able to close all the way after eating and stomach acid can back up into the esophagus. There are many issues that can affect the function of the LES and become GERD causes:
1. Improper Functioning of the Stomach – If the nerves and muscles of the stomach do not function as they should, the stomach cannot digest food and stomach acid quickly enough to allow the stomach to empty as soon as it should. This increases pressure in the stomach, thus increasing the threat of acid reflux.
2. Prescription and Over-the-Counter Medications – Some drugs can be the causes of GERD. NSAIDs such as ibuprofen, naproxen, and aspirin can add to the severity of GERD. People who use these drugs are much more apt to have GERD.
3. Esophageal Abnormalities – There are certain unusual symptoms of GERD like hoarseness, coughing, and the sensation of a lump in the throat that indicate that there may be an abnormality in the esophagus. Spontaneous muscle action is one of these abnormalities.
4. Hiatel Hernias – The esophagus fits through a hole in the diaphragm to join the stomach. If this hole gets weak or grows, the stomach can protrude into the esophagus. This condition is known as a hiatel hernia and can impair the proper functioning of the LES.
5. Asthma – Over fifty percent of people with GERD have asthma. However, there is some question as to whether asthma is one of the causes of GERD or a result of GERD. Coughing attacks can add pressure inside the chest and trigger reflex. Some studies show that asthma medications dilate the airway, thus relaxing the LES and setting off reflux.
6. Pregnancy – Though not one of the most common causes of GERD, pregnancy can increase the chances of having GERD. The hormone progesterone relaxes the LES.
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