Acid reflux happens because the sphincter in the lower esophagus becomes weakened. The stomach normally digests food with the production of acid, which is not supposed to cause any damage. But the acid will flow back into the esophagus when the sphincter relaxes and does not close properly. This acid backup causes the burning sensation known as heartburn. The heartburn reaction occurs once in a while to many people, but when it happens regularly it may be an acid reflux problem that requires medication or a change in eating habits.
Regurgitate
Heartburn is one part of acid reflux. It causes the burning sensation in the chest and the throat. It happens to some people with certain foods on an occasional basis. Acid reflux also produces regurgitation when the acid backs up into the esophagus, often causing a sour taste in the throat, the University of Maryland Medical Center (UMMC) explains.
Dysfunction
Acid reflux, sometimes referred to as gastroesophageal reflux disease or GERD, can result in acid indigestion symptoms in the lower part of the chest, behind the breastbone and in the middle abdomen. Some people with acid reflux may also experience trouble swallowing and dry coughing. It is not known why the esophageal sphincter becomes dysfunctional or why it occurs in some people and not in others, according to the National Digestive Disease Information Clearinghouse (NDDIC).
Aggravating Factors
People of all ages may be affected by acid reflux, the NDDIC says. Obesity, pregnancy and smoking may contribute to it. Certain foods may aggravate it and bring on the symptoms. Caffeine, alcohol, fat and fried foods, citrus fruits, chocolate, spicy foods and tomato sauces have been blamed for causing heartburn. But different foods and fluids may affect people differently and result in acid reflux. It may be that some people are predisposed to acid reflux.
Underlying Disorder
Acid reflux may also be the result of hiatal hernia, which happens when the upper part of the stomach and lower esophageal sphincter are moved above the diaphragm. The diaphragm usually helps the sphincter block the acid, but not when there is a hiatal hernia. Often, no other symptoms are present, so a medical checkup is necessary to discover this underlying problem.
Neutralizing Acid
Antacids can neutralize the acid for people who have occasional bouts with heartburn. When the acid reactions continue for people as they bend over or lie down, especially after a meal, it shows that there is acid reflux. Stronger acid-reducing medications, such as H2 blockers or proton pump inhibitors, are necessary. These medications neutralize stomach acids for longer periods of time. Over time acid reflux may cause serious damage to the esophagus and stomach if not treated. It may even lead to esophageal cancer, the UMMC says. If medications or a change in diet, such as cutting out offending foods or eating smaller meals, does not prevent acid reflux, surgery to strengthen the esophageal sphincter may be advised.
