Causes of Gastric Reflux

Gastric reflux occurs when acid from the stomach leaks into the esophagus and causes feelings of pain and heartburn. According to the Mayo Clinic, gastric reflux can be worse when sleeping or when bending over, which makes it easier for stomach acid to come up into the esophagus. People can use home remedies, over-the-counter or prescription medications to relieve symptoms and treat the causes of gastric reflux.

Acidic Foods

• Acidic foods such as coffee, mint, citrus, tomato products and dairy products may add to the excess acid produced by the stomach and cause further irritation and reflux.

Caffeine

• Foods with caffeine such as chocolate as well as beverages such as tea, coffee and soda may irritate the lining of the stomach and cause reflux.

Alcohol

• Alcoholic beverages can irritate the stomach and erode the lining of the esophagus, which may cause reflux or make existing reflux worse.

Large Meals

• According to the Mayo Clinic, eating too much at one time may cause the muscle between the stomach and esophagus to relax and open, causing reflux.

Gravity

• Lying down after a meal can cause the muscle at the bottom of the esophagus to open, allowing acid from the stomach to escape and cause reflux.

Hiatal Hernia

• Hiatal hernia occurs when part of the stomach moves above the diaphragm in the chest, which can release acid from the stomach into the esophagus.

Smoking

• According to the Cleveland Clinic, smoking cigarettes can relax the esophageal sphincter, which allows stomach acid to come up into the esophagus.