Anyone who eats a large amount of acidic foods can have mild and temporary acid reflux. This is particularly true when bending over, lifting, or laying down after eating a large meal high in acidic and fatty, foods. Persistent acid reflux,however, may be caused by various conditions, including irregular biologic or structural factors.

A few studies suggest that most people with acid reflux symptoms such as hoarseness, chronic cough, or the feeling of having a lump in the throat have spontaneous muscle action (peristalsis) in the esophagus commonly occur with acid reflux, although it is not clear if such occurrences are a cause or result of long-term problems of acid reflux.

Abnormal nerve or muscle function may contribute to acid reflux causes

Studies show that about half of acid reflux patients showed abnormal nerve or muscle function in the stomach. These defects cause impaired motility, which is the inability of muscles to act instinctively. The stomach muscles do not contract normally, which causes delays in stomach emptying, increasing the risk for acid back up.

Hiatal Hernia

The hiatus is a small hole in the diaphragm where the esophagus enters through and into your stomach. It usually fits very securely, but it may become weak and enlarge. If this happens, part of the stomach muscles may protrude into it producing a condition called hiatal hernia. It is very common, occurring in about half of people over 60 years of age and is rarely serious. Until recently it was believed that most cases of persistent acid reflux were caused by a hiatal hernia. Hiatal hernia may impair the LES muscle function (see below). Studies have failed to confirm this evidence, that it is a ordinary cause of acid reflux, although its presence may increase the symptoms in people with both conditions.

A Malfunction of the Lower Esophageal Sphincter (LES) Muscles

A band of muscle tissue called the (LES) is responsible for closing and opening the lower part of the esophagus and is essential for maintaining a pressure barrier against contents from the stomach. It is a complex area of smooth muscles and various hormones. If this becomes weak and loses tone, the LES cannot close up completely after food empties into the stomach. In these cases, acid from the stomach backs up into the esophagus. A few dietary pruducts, drugs, and nervous system issues can weaken it and impair its job.

These are a few of the most important acid reflux causes

Acid Reflux Is Also Called Heartburn or GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease)

Many people suffer the effects of acid reflux periodically, and these people can easily find some otc medications at the local drugstore to minimize the pain from the condition. People who suffer often from this condition could have a serious problem that should be treated by [spin] your doctor. | expert medical professionals. [spin]