Iron deficiency anemia and vitamin B-12 deficiency do not cause acid reflux. Acid reflux is a condition in which acidic stomach contents flow backwards into the esophagus. Acid reflux causes heartburn and inflammation on the lining of the esophagus. Acid reflux is caused by a weakened lower esophageal sphincter muscle or LES which relaxes spontaneously and allows stomach contents to leak backwards into the esophagus.
Acid Reflux Causes
A healthy LES prevents the backward flow of acidic content into the esophagus. The LES opens when you swallow food or drinks and closes when you are not eating. Certain factors can cause the LES to weaken and open spontaneously. These factors include pregnancy, obesity, smoking, alcohol, caffeine, fatty foods, tomato-based products, peppermint and use of certain medications.
Iron Deficiency Anemia and Vitamin B-12
Acid reflux patients who take proton pump inhibitors for a longtime may experience iron and vitamin B-12 deficiency, according to PubMedHealth. Proton pump inhibitors are drugs that suppress the production of stomach acid. Proton pump inhibitors and other acid suppressing drugs can cause many nutrients deficiencies because stomach acid is needed for nutrient absorption. Long-term use of proton inhibitors decreases acid in the stomach which leads to lower levels of iron and vitamin B-12.
Deficiency Symptoms
If you are taking proton pump inhibitors for a longtime, you should be assessed for nutrient deficiencies regularly. Be aware of the signs and symptoms of nutrient deficiencies. Iron deficiency causes anemia. Symptoms of iron deficiency anemia include fatigue, weakness, pale skin, shortness of breath and brittle nails. Vitamin B-12 deficiency symptoms include anemia, sore tongue, numbness and tingling of hands and feet,mental confusion, psychosis and dementia.
Acid Reflux Symptoms
If you have acid reflux, you may experience symptoms such as burning pain in the chest that worsens when you bend or lie down, nausea after eating, chronic cough or wheezing, sore throat, bad breath, hiccups and hoarseness or change in your voice, according to PubMedHealth. It is important that you seek early treatment for acid reflux. Untreated acid reflux can lead to narrowing of the esophagus, difficulties swallowing and cancer of the esophagus.
