In most cases of acid reflux there is not any one thing in particular that is responsible for causing it. Clearly, a weak LES (Lower Esophageal Sphincter) is a primary cause but it is not known why some people have a more relaxed LES than others.

There are however, many factors, that can contribute to causing acid reflux, either by relaxing the esophagus, increasing stomach pressure or causing excess acid. Below, we look at some of the most common triggers:

Hiatus hernia

With this condition, the stomach protudes through a weakness or tear in the diaphragm meaning that the LES is unable to close. As a result sufferers experience acid reflux, regurgitation and heartburn.

Certain foods and drink

Different foods have different effects on different people, however there a certain foods and drinks that should be on everyone's danger list. These include coffee, alchohol, spicy foods, fatty foods, tomatoes, peppermint, chocolate, dairy products and fruit juices.

Smoking 

Smoking is known to reduce the competece of the Lower Esophageal Sphincter making it easier for stomach acids to find their way into the esophagus.

Pregnancy

There are 2 main reasons why pregancy causes acid reflux issues. One of these is that the expanding uterus puts extra pressure on the stomach, which helps to force the acid towards the esophagus. The other is the relaxing of the LES due to hormonal changes.

Overeating

Eating too much at one sitting is a common contributor to acid reflux. The extra acid produced to try and break down the excess food increases the likelihood of some acid being washed up the wrong way through to the esophagus. Also, eating large amounts shortly before going to bed is a strong cause of night time acid reflux.

Lying down

The force of gravity in keeping acid down in the stomach where it belongs is taken away when you are lying down. This is why many people complain of particularly bad acid reflux when trying to sleep. Sleeping with more pillows or buying a special acid reflux pillow is recommended to help gain relief.

Clothing

Believe it or not, the type of clothing you wear can be a factor in causing acid reflux. Wearing tight fitting clothes around the waist puts extra pressure on the stomach and pushes the acidic stomach contents up towards the esophagus.

More acid reflux causes articles:

• Acid Reflux - What Causes It And How Can You Stop it?
• Real Causes of Acid Reflux As Yet Unknown

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