Acid reflux is also referred to as gastro-esophageal reflux disease (GERD). One of the acid reflux causes is a weak esophageal sphincter or one that does not close properly. The sphincter is a muscle ring that is located at the bottom of the esophagus and right above the stomach. This muscle stops the stomach contents from coming up into the throat and mouth. The stomach acids can come back up and cause what feels like heartburn and a burning sensation in the throat. It can also give you an acidic taste in your mouth. Not only is it uncomfortable, if treatment is not given quickly, the esophagus and the larynx can be damaged from the acid.

There are many acid reflux causes that contribute to acid reflux disease. Doctors are really not sure what the real acid reflux causes are. There are a few things that have been found to irritate the problem more. Smoking, stress, being overweight and bad diet of high fats and salt contribute to irritating the condition more. If you have been diagnosed with a hiatal hernia, you could experience symptoms more severe with the acid reflux symptoms on top of it. Obesity and pregnancy are the same as well. All three of the above problems can be made worse and the pressure on the stomach is one of the acid reflux causes. Peptic ulcers and lack of digestion enzymes are also acid reflux causes; they cause the acids to go back up to the esophagus. Asthma and Diabetes sufferers may also have the acid reflux disease symptoms more than usual.

Preventing Acid Reflux Disease

Usually after a large meal, the acid reflux symptoms may appear. You can prevent this from happening by eating smaller portions. You may also want to keep a food diary to write down any food that you are eating. If you often experience acid reflux, a food diary will help you identify which foods may be causing you to have acid reflux. Your doctor may also suggest that you stay away from alcohol, caffeine and cigarettes. These are certainly not acid reflux causes, but they are the aggravators of acid reflux disease. You may also notice that laying down makes acid reflux worse. Try to stay up after eating your meals. If you need to sleep after eating, elevating your upper body will help you to not have to suffer from heartburn during the night or in the morning.

There are just as many treatments as there are symptoms of acid reflux. Contacting your doctor and talking to him about what is going on will help you to find relief and remove the pain of acid reflux.