Acid Reflux the Disease

A Chronic Disease Caused by Many Different Factors

Improper functioning of the LES muscles or lower esophageal sphincter is one of the main reasons people experience the caustic fluid backup characteristic of acid reflux.

The lower esophageal sphincter muscles are located at the base of the esophagus. They function as the gatekeeper to the stomach by providing a method of opening and closing the passageway to the stomach. Weak LES muscles are unable to fully close the passageway which is how acid from the stomach can find its way up into the esophagus.

Esophagus Abnormalities

Another reason people are afflicted with acid reflux disease comes from potential abnormalities of the esophagus. Although different parts of the esophagus may be malformed, the most common abnormalities leading to acid reflux are peristalsis and a condition known as adult-ringed esophagus, where small rings in the throat can cause one's inability to swallow properly.

If the stomach isn't functioning properly it's another factor which can account for acid reflux. Over 50% of those suffering with acid reflux have impaired stomach muscles and have difficulty responding quickly to stimuli. Often stomach acid backs up into the esophagus when the stomach not being emptied of it's content for an extended period of time.

Hiatal Hernias

Hiatal hernias are another reason that you may experience reflux symptoms. The hiatus is a hole located in the diaphragm, functioning to secure the passageway between the esophagus and the stomach.

The hiatus is usually tight, which keeps the organs apart or separate. However, if the hiatus is weakened, it can loosen up and where a small part of the stomach can actually protrude through the hole "creating a hiatal hernia. While hiatal hernias cannot take full responsibly for acid reflux, they can contribute to a lack of functioning in the LES muscles, which, can lead to acid reflux.

NSAIDs - Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs

Besides the above reasons you may develop symptoms of acid reflux, certain drugs can also play a part. NSAIDs, or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs may also be responsible for acid reflux development and making those with the disease worse.

These NSAID drugs are very common, and most are recognized brands including Motrin, Nuprin, Advil, and Aleve. A recent research study showed people who regularly took these medications were as much as two times as likely to experience some symptoms of acid reflux.

Asthma and Diabetes

When diagnosing the cause of acid reflux and it's symptoms what about asthma and diabetes?

At least half of all asthma sufferers are known to experience acid reflux, but we have not yet figured out or discovered which disease may be causing the other. Diet can play a being part in combating reflux prevention, diabetes sufferers need to be aware of their eating habits when it comes to acid reflux; many diabetics suffer from a condition which causes a delay in the emptying of the stomach called gastroparesis. This condition can cause a backup in the stomach and consequently an acid buildup in the esophagus.