Acid reflux

Acid reflux occurs when stomach acid flows back up into the esophagus (the tube that connects your mouth and stomach). This backward flow is also known as gastroesophageal reflux. When acid reflux happens frequently, it may lead to gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).

The main cause of acid reflux is a weakened or relaxed lower esophageal sphincter (LES) — a ring of muscle that acts as a valve between the esophagus and stomach. If the LES doesn’t close properly, stomach acid can leak into the esophagus.

Common causes include:

• Overeating or lying down after a meal
• Obesity
• Pregnancy
• Hiatal hernia (part of the stomach moves above the diaphragm)
• Smoking
• Certain foods and drinks (e.g., spicy foods, caffeine, alcohol, chocolate, fatty foods)
• Medications (e.g., NSAIDs, certain blood pressure meds, muscle relaxants)

Several factors can increase the risk of developing acid reflux:

• Lifestyle habits (smoking, poor diet, excessive alcohol intake)
• Eating large meals or eating late at night
• Being overweight or obese
• Wearing tight-fitting clothes
• Pregnancy
• Certain medical conditions (e.g., diabetes, asthma, connective tissue disorders)

Treatment options vary based on severity and frequency:

Lifestyle Modifications

• Quit smoking
• Avoid lying down for at least 2–3 hours after eating
• Elevate the head of the bed
• Maintain a healthy weight
• Avoid trigger foods (spicy, fatty, or acidic foods)
• Eat smaller, more frequent meals

Medications