What causes severe heartburn or acid reflux? Here's what experts say...
Acid Reflux is also known as ‘Heartburn’ is caused
when an acid from the stomach backs up into the esophagus, triggering an uncomfortable
burning sensation.
 |
| Photo: Acid Reflux | InStyleHealth |
Almost everybody experience heartburn at some point in
their lives. But, if these symptoms occur more than two days a week for several
months, a person may have Acid Reflux Disease, otherwise medically known as
Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD).
Acid reflux happens when the valve separating the esophagus
and stomach, known as the lower esophageal sphincter, does not close properly,
allowing acid to go back up into the esophagus. This often happens when the
lower esophageal sphincter relaxes more often than it should, and at inappropriate
times.
This acid reflux can be triggered off by a number of
factors:
Eating the wrong food including acidic, spicy, or
fatty foods, or even over-eating before bedtime.
A medical condition can also cause heartburn, including
Hiatus Hernia, or pregnancy for instance.
Lifestyle habits are also a factor that can trigger
heartburn, lifestyle habits such as undue stress, smoking, or consuming excess
caffeinated beverages.
Exercising on full stomach, like lying down or bending
over while on full stomach can cause heartburn, same thing when someone is
overweight, along with any exercises that cause increased pressure on the
abdomen, and wearing tight clothes.
Acid reflux, unless treated, may lead to more serious
medical conditions. It can eventually erode the lining of the esophagus which
can result to a condition known as Erosive Esophagitis.
GERD or Gastroesophageal Reflux can even occur in infants,
a common symptom being spitting up. More than half of all babies, experience
reflux during their first few months of life. A small number of babies can
suffer severe symptoms due to GERD.
Luckily, acid reflux is treatable and a doctor can
prescribe appropriate medication, some of which can heal areas of the esophagus
that have been eroded or affected by the acid reflux.