Acid reflux or GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease) occurs when the fluid found in the stomach back up into the esophagus. Usually, a condition that persists throughout the life of the individual. Because the acid backs up into the esophagus, the esophagus can be damaged.

Acid reflux (GERD) can have several causes. The action of the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) may be a cause. The esophagus connects the stomach. It is a muscular ring that goes to the end of the esophagus where it meets the stomach. This is the LES. When we eat or drink the LES allows food to pass into the stomach, then the muscle ring closes so that food does not reflux. People with acid reflux (GERD) may have defects in their ERP. LES may have a weak contraction so it is a very good chance of reflux. However, the ERP may be too relaxed. The more open LES (relaxed) reflux can occur easily.

Another cause of acid reflux (GERD) is a hiatal hernia. Some people with acid reflux have hiatal hernias and some do not. Hiatal hernias are not a prerequisite for acid reflux, but a large number of people suffering from acid reflux DO have hiatal hernia. A hiatal hernia alters the location of the LES. Must be in the membrane, but because of the hiatal hernia the LES is pushed up and is in the chest. It is a problem because the diaphragm is an important part of helping the LES to prevent reflux. Now, both LES pressure and the diaphragm does not function as a strong unit. Hiatal hernia contributes to the reflux due to decreased pressure.

Acid reflux can be caused by a hiatal hernia the hernia sac. The location of the bag is near the esophagus. The acid is trapped in the bag. Because the bag is so close to the esophagus on the LES relaxation is easy to reflux.

hiatus hernia can lead to acid reflux in a third way. Normally, the esophagus meets the stomach at an angle to create a tissue flap. Hiatal hernia results in distorted and become the component of what is necessary to stop the reflux.

People with acid reflux have a problem with the esophagus, the muscular contraction when swallowed. This is a problem, since the contraction pushes all elements of the esophagus into the stomach. If there is a good contraction then the acid is not rejected and remains in the esophagus. Smoking alters the compensation of the esophagus as well. It takes about six hours of the last cigarette you smoke effect in the esophagus to fade.

Acid reflux is most common after meals. It is always better to be upright so that gravity can facilitate the passage of stomach acid. large meals are not recommended for people suffering from acid reflux.

There are many people who for various reasons may have acid reflux. Learn the cause can help in your quest to relieve the discomfort of acid reflux.