The esophageal sphincter is located in the area of the stomach and the esophagus. These lower sphincter muscles are important as they control digestion and block the reverse flow of acid produced naturally by the stomach. If the sphincter muscles at this opening become damaged, acid reflux may result.

Acid reflux is a severe condition that results in intermittent regurgitation and symptoms of severe dysphagia, which narrows the esophageal passage, as well as wheezing, hoarseness, sore throat and dry cough. If the episodes of acid reflux occur frequently, you may be diagnosed with a disease called gastroesophageal reflux disorder, or GERD. Causes of acid reflux may be as follows:

1. Stomach abnormality

Stomach abnormality, also known as a hiatal hernia, is a common cause of reflux disease. This abnormality develops with age. In this condition, the upper stomach moves to the upper part of the diaphragm. Diaphragm functions to separate the chest and the stomach. When the diaphragm works normally, it prevents the backflow of the acid. In a hiatal hernia, the acid may rise up to the esophagus causing the symptoms to appear like indigestion.

2. Pregnancy

Acid reflux is a common condition in women during conception. This condition is triggered with an upheaval in hormone levels in combination with an increase in abdominal pressure due to a growing fetus. These symptoms get more pronounced in the third trimester. In such condition, there can be heartburn, which may make things extremely uncomfortable for the pregnant mother. This is a temporary condition that subsequently goes away after the delivery of the baby.

3. Smoking

Smoking contributes to acid reflux disease as the mucous membrane becomes damaged and the reflexive muscles in the throat become impaired. Smoking may cause worsening acid secretions. The esophageal sphincter may also shrink due to heavy smoking. Smoking leads to reduced salivation that neutralizes the acid effect. Thus, all these factors combined cause acid reflux.

4. Diet

There are certain foods that can trigger the symptoms of acid reflux. Eating large quantities of food can increase the severity of symptoms. Carbonated beverages, decaffeinated or regular tea or coffee and alcohol can lead to the acid reflux. Citrus fruit, chocolate, fried foods, onions, garlic, mint; tomato containing foods are some food that can lead to the disease.

5. Other associated causes

There are some causes that can increase the chances of developing reflux disease. One of the causes is being overweight that may trigger the occurrence of reflux disease. Heavy exposure or eating heavy metal, lying on your back immediately after having the meal, and taking muscle relaxing medication may also contribute. Certain blood pressure medication can also lead to reflux disease.