Gastric reflux, also called gastroesophageal reflux disease, or GERD, occurs when acids from the stomach, which are called gastric acids, flow back into the esophagus. Typical symptoms of gastric reflux, according to The New York Times, include a burning feeling in the chest and throat, and the sensation of acid in the esophagus, or regurgitation.
Hiatal Hernia
According to the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse, or NDDIC, a hiatal hernia may contribute to gastroesophageal reflux. A hiatal hernia develops when the top part of the stomach and the lower esophageal sphincter travel above the diaphragm. Typically, the diaphragm aids the lower esophageal sphincter in keeping acids away from the esophagus; with a hiatal hernia, acid reflux occurs. Individuals of any age can have a hiatal hernia, and the NDDIC says this is a common finding in individuals over 50 years old.
Other Physical Causes
The lower esophageal sphincter is a muscle that helps keep stomach acid out of the esophagus. When this muscle is weak, the sphincter does not close completely and stomach acid backs up, or refluxes, into the esophagus, causing gastric reflux. The New York Times says that dietary factors, drugs and nervous system factors can all be causes of a weakened lower esophageal sphincter. Esophageal abnormalities can also be a cause of gastric reflux; problems with spontaneous muscle contractions or rings in the esophagus that make swallowing difficult are the specific ones related to reflux.
Diet and Lifestyle
Certain foods can cause and aggravate gastric reflux, and dietary changes can help reduce the risk of reflux and lessen the irritation of esophageal tissue, says the McKinley Health Center at the University of Illinois. Meals high in fat and fried foods increase the risk of reflux, as do large meals; eating smaller, lower-fat meals can help reduce the chances of reflux later. Chocolate, coffee, alcohol, mint, carbonated drinks, tomato-based foods and citrus drinks can also aggravate reflux, according to the McKinley Health Center. Obesity, smoking cigarettes and stress can all be additional causes of reflux.
Genetic Factors
Approximately 30 to 40 percent of reflux may be caused by inherited factors, says The New York Times. This is thought to be caused by inherited muscle or structural abnormalities in the esophagus or stomach. Problems with muscle functioning in the stomach are found in many individuals with reflux; these abnormalities lead to a delay of stomach emptying, which leads to acid buildup and gastric reflux.
