Major Causes of Acid Reflux Disease

Gastroesophageal reflux disease, or GERD, is when the contents of the stomach back up into the esophagus. This can cause damage to the lining of the esophagus. This condition is also just called reflux or heartburn. Some of the causes of GERD include diet, excess weight and medications taken for other conditions.

Diet

• A diet high in fatty, fried or acidic foods can cause or worsen GERD, as can consuming too many alcoholic or caffeinated beverages.

Excess Weight

• Reflux is prevalent in the obese, but it can also be a problem for those carrying just a few extra pounds. Maintaining a normal body mass index is important in preventing GERD.

Medications

• Certain medications taken for other conditions can aggravate reflux. Drugs for asthma and osteoporosis, and non steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, or NSAIDs, are a few examples.

Genetics

• Some doctors believe that muscular problems in the digestive system can be inherited, as can the predisposition for Barrett's esophagus.

Conditions

• Pregnant women often suffer from acid reflux disease because of the pressure on the lower esophageal sphincter from the growing fetus. Also, those with a hiatal hernia---when a part of the upper stomach attached to the esophagus pushes up through the diaphragm---are more prone to reflux.