The Causes of Heartburn: Understanding the Factors that Trigger Acid Reflux

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Gastric Irritants

Heartburn is a common and sometimes debilitating condition that affects millions of people worldwide. This burning sensation in the chest is often caused by acid reflux, whereby stomach acids flow back into the esophagus, irritating the lining of the throat and causing discomfort. While the occasional bout of heartburn may be the result of overindulging in spicy or acidic foods, persistent and chronic heartburn may be due to factors beyond one’s control. One such factor is gastric irritants, which refer to substances that can trigger the production of excess stomach acid, leading to heartburn. Common gastric irritants include: We’re committed to providing a rich learning experience. That’s why we suggest this external website with extra and relevant information about the subject. https://geriatricacademy.com/shoulder-blade-pain-from-acid-reflux-or-gerd/, investigate and discover more.

Alcohol

Caffeine

Spicy foods

Peppermint and spearmint

Tomatoes

Citrus fruits and juices

Vinegar and products containing vinegar, such as salad dressings

While some people are more sensitive to gastric irritants than others, it’s best to avoid consuming foods and drinks that trigger heartburn in order to minimize discomfort.

Hiatal Hernia

A hiatal hernia is a condition in which part of the stomach protrudes through the diaphragm and into the chest cavity. This can lead to the acid in the stomach flowing back into the esophagus, causing heartburn. While the exact cause of hiatal hernias is unknown, they are more common in individuals over the age of 50, and in those who are overweight or obese. In some cases, hiatal hernias may require surgical intervention to repair the opening in the diaphragm that allows the stomach to protrude.

Smoking

Smoking cigarettes and using other tobacco products can lead to heartburn in several ways. First, smoking can relax the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), which is the muscle that separates the stomach from the esophagus. When the LES is relaxed, stomach acid can flow back into the esophagus more easily, causing heartburn. Additionally, smoking can increase the production of stomach acid, leading to a greater likelihood of acid reflux.

Pregnancy

Pregnancy can also be a trigger of heartburn for some women, particularly during the later stages of pregnancy when the growing fetus puts pressure on the abdomen. This pressure can force stomach acid up into the esophagus, causing discomfort. Hormonal changes during pregnancy can also lead to relaxation of the LES, making it easier for stomach acid to flow back into the esophagus. Pregnant women can try sleeping with their head elevated, avoiding large meals, and avoiding foods that trigger heartburn in order to minimize symptoms.

Obesity

Obesity is a major risk factor for heartburn, as excess weight can put pressure on the abdomen and lead to acid reflux. Additionally, studies have shown that the more overweight a person is, the more severe their heartburn symptoms tend to be. Losing weight through a healthy diet and regular exercise can help reduce heartburn symptoms for those who are overweight or obese.

Conclusion

While heartburn can be an uncomfortable and sometimes painful condition, it is usually easily managed through lifestyle changes and medication. By understanding the factors that can trigger heartburn, individuals can take steps to avoid these triggers and minimize their symptoms. If heartburn persists or becomes more severe over time, it’s important to consult with a healthcare professional to rule out any underlying medical conditions. Learn more about the subject covered in this article by visiting the recommended external website. There, you’ll find additional details and a different approach to the topic. heartburn back pain between shoulder blades https://geriatricacademy.com/shoulder-blade-pain-from-acid-reflux-or-gerd/.