Acid reflux refers to a condition wherein the stomach contents, mixed with stomach acids, flow back into the esophagus. This occurs because of the improper functioning of the Lower Esophageal Sphincter (LES) muscle. When this acid frequently regurgitates (more than twice a week), it is a severe form of acid reflux known as Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD).

Causes and associated risk factors of acid reflux and GERD
There are multiple causes of acid reflux and GERD, and they may affect a person independently or collectively. Let’s look at the major causes and risk factors of acid reflux and GERD.

Causes

• Abnormality in the LES
  It is the most crucial reason for acid reflux and GERD. Functional anomalies like poor contraction of the LES and transient LES relaxations may lead to acid reflux and GERD. Laxity of the LES is another such abnormality that can trigger acid reflux.
• Hiatal hernia
  For patients of GERD, hiatal hernia can be a trigger. In hiatal hernia, a part of the upper stomach pushes up into the chest through diaphragmatic hiatus or an opening in the diaphragm (a partition between the chest and abdomen). As the diaphragm gets compromised by the push, it fails to surround the LES properly and allows the reflux of stomach acids.
• Abnormal gastric emptying
  In some patients with GERD, the stomach can empty at an unusually slow pace, allowing acid reflux to occur over a longer period. Several medications can cause this abnormal gastric emptying.
• Problems with esophageal contractions
  When esophageal contractions become faulty, the LES fails to send back refluxed acid into the stomach with swallowing.

Risk factors

• Asthma
  People with asthma have higher chances of developing GERD. The flare-ups of asthma relax the LES and permit stomach acids to flow backward into the esophagus. Acid reflux and GERD may also worsen because of asthma medications.
• Obesity
  Evidence shows that obesity elevates the risk of acid reflux and GERD, as it causes increased pressure on the abdomen that leads the LES muscle to become loose.
• Smoking
  Smoking interferes with the reflexes of the LES muscle and triggers the stomach to produce more acid.
• Consuming certain food items
  Specific foods can increase the chances of acid reflux, and these include tomatoes, citrus fruits, onion, garlic, chocolate, mint, fatty, and spicy foods.
• Pregnancy
  Pregnancy is another cause and risk factor of acid reflux and GERD, as hormonal fluctuations during pregnancy can slow the digestive process. Also, the enlarged uterus creates pressure on the stomach, forcing stomach acid to flow backward into the esophagus.
• Unhealthy habits
  Unhealthy habits like lying down immediately after having a large meal and snacking around bedtime increase the risk of acid reflux and can lead to GERD.

Acid reflux or GERD is not life-threatening, but untreated GERD can result in serious medical conditions. So, understanding the major causes and risk factors of acid reflux and GERD can help a person stay cautious and take proactive steps to prevent the condition.