Understanding Acid Reflux: Causes, Symptoms & Prevention

Acid reflux is a painful condition that irritates the lining of the esophagus, causing a burning sensation in the chest or throat. According to Medline Plus, people commonly experience acid reflux after meals. Though taking medications can help reduce the pain, some people can also avoid other factors that contribute to acid reflux.

Source

• Some people get acid reflux because digested food or liquids travels out from the stomach into the esophagus, causing irritation and heartburn. This is called gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) or acid reflux.

Cause

• According to Medline Plus, problems with the lower esophageal sphincter, which acts as a barrier between the esophagus and stomach, causes acid reflux.

Risk Factors

• A current hiatal hernia, scleroderma, or pregnancy increases a person's risk. Being obese is also another risk factor.

Medications

• Other people get acid reflux because of certain medications. These drugs include anticholinergics, beta blockers, bronchodilators, calcium channel blockers, dopamine-active drugs, progestin birth control, sedatives and tricylic antidepressants.

Lifestyle

• People also increase their risk for getting acid reflux by smoking and drinking alcohol. Medline Plus recommends avoiding alcohol or cigarette smoking to reduce acid reflux.

Food

• According to the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse (NDDIC), dietary fat, fried foods, caffeine, peppermint, onions, chocolate, garlic and foods containing citrus juice or tomatoes also contribute to acid reflux.