the Causes of Frequent Acid Reflux: What You Need to Know

Acid reflux

Hello! I often experience acid reflux, at least twice a week.
What could be the cause of this?

Xiao Xiao Yu, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2001/10/17

Dr. Yang Guojun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

The production of intestinal gas primarily has three sources: first, gas that is swallowed; second, gas produced from the fermentation of substances in the intestines; and third, gas that permeates from the bloodstream into the intestinal lumen.
A normal person produces approximately 1380 cc of gas daily and passes gas about 13 times a day.
The main components of this gas are 82% CO2, H2, and methane, while the foul odor is primarily due to sulfur-containing compounds.
When there is an excess of gas in the abdomen, it may lead to situations where gas cannot be expelled downward and must be released upward.
If you are concerned about any health conditions, you may consider scheduling an upper gastrointestinal endoscopy.
If you have an unhealthy intestinal environment, it is advisable to regularly consume probiotics such as Lactobacillus (including Lactococcus, Lactobacillus, Streptococcus thermophilus, and Bifidobacterium), which can help purify the internal ecological environment, such as through yogurt.
If you experience frequent gas, it is recommended to reduce the intake of fermentable foods, such as milk, lactose products, starches, bread, steamed buns, and legumes.

Reply Date: 2001/10/17

More Info

Frequent acid reflux, also known as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), can be a common issue for many individuals. It occurs when stomach acid flows back into the esophagus, leading to symptoms such as heartburn, regurgitation, and discomfort. Understanding the causes of frequent acid reflux is crucial for effective management and prevention.

Common Causes of Acid Reflux
1. Dietary Choices: Certain foods and beverages can trigger acid reflux. Common culprits include spicy foods, fatty or fried foods, chocolate, caffeine, alcohol, and citrus fruits. These items can relax the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), the muscle that prevents stomach contents from flowing back into the esophagus.

2. Obesity: Excess weight can put pressure on the abdomen, pushing stomach contents up into the esophagus. This is particularly relevant for individuals who are overweight or obese.

3. Hiatal Hernia: This condition occurs when part of the stomach pushes through the diaphragm into the chest cavity. It can contribute to acid reflux by weakening the LES.

4. Smoking: Tobacco use can weaken the LES and impair the ability of the esophagus to clear acid, increasing the likelihood of reflux.

5. Pregnancy: Hormonal changes and increased abdominal pressure during pregnancy can lead to acid reflux. Many women experience this condition during their pregnancy.

6. Medications: Certain medications, including anti-inflammatory drugs, muscle relaxants, and some blood pressure medications, can contribute to acid reflux by relaxing the LES or irritating the esophagus.

7. Eating Habits: Eating large meals or lying down immediately after eating can exacerbate reflux symptoms. It is advisable to wait at least two to three hours after eating before lying down.

8. Stress: While stress itself may not directly cause acid reflux, it can lead to behaviors (like overeating or consuming trigger foods) that increase the likelihood of reflux.

Managing and Preventing Acid Reflux
1. Dietary Modifications: Keeping a food diary can help identify specific triggers. Avoiding known trigger foods and opting for smaller, more frequent meals can be beneficial.

2. Weight Management: If overweight, losing even a small amount of weight can significantly reduce reflux symptoms.

3. Elevating the Head During Sleep: Raising the head of the bed by 6 to 8 inches can help prevent nighttime symptoms by using gravity to keep stomach contents in place.

4. Avoiding Tight Clothing: Wearing loose-fitting clothing can reduce pressure on the abdomen, which may help alleviate symptoms.

5. Quitting Smoking: If you smoke, seeking help to quit can improve overall health and reduce reflux symptoms.

6. Medications: Over-the-counter antacids, H2 blockers, or proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) can be effective in managing symptoms. However, it is essential to consult a healthcare provider before starting any medication.

7. Consulting a Healthcare Provider: If symptoms persist despite lifestyle changes, it is crucial to seek medical advice. A healthcare provider can conduct further evaluations, such as endoscopy or pH monitoring, to assess the severity of the condition and recommend appropriate treatment options.

Conclusion
Frequent acid reflux can significantly impact quality of life, but understanding its causes and implementing lifestyle changes can help manage and prevent symptoms. If you experience persistent or severe symptoms, it is essential to consult a healthcare professional for a comprehensive evaluation and tailored treatment plan. Remember, managing acid reflux often requires a combination of dietary changes, lifestyle modifications, and, in some cases, medication.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Excess Stomach Acid: Causes, Symptoms, and Solutions

Is excessive stomach acid commonly referred to as acid reflux, and is it necessary to undergo an endoscopy? What methods can be used to improve the condition of excessive stomach acid?

Dr. Chen Shidian reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Dear Miss Hsiao-Wen, If you experience "heartburn" or "acid regurgitation," it indicates that stomach acid (not necessarily excessive) is refluxing into the esophagus. Generally, dietary adjustments, avoiding lying down after meals, and reducing sweet foods a...

Understanding GERD: Causes, Treatment, and Lifestyle Changes

Hello Doctor, in mid-September this year, I went for an endoscopy due to a persistent burning sensation in my throat. The doctor diagnosed me with Grade B gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), noting some redness at the gastroesophageal junction. I was prescribed a proton pump ...

Dr. Chen Qifeng reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Avoid smoking and alcohol, limit coffee and tea intake, reduce consumption of spicy foods and glutinous rice products, and avoid overly sweet or sour foods. Limit beverage intake, refrain from eating for three hours before bedtime, elevate your head while sleeping, and minimize t...

How to Determine If You Have High or Low Stomach Acid

1. How can one determine whether gastroesophageal reflux is caused by excessive or insufficient stomach acid, and what tests should be conducted to assess the levels of stomach acid? 2. What treatments are available for excessive stomach acid and insufficient stomach acid? 3. B...

Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: The issue is likely caused by gastric acid refluxing into the esophagus. Some cases are due to excessive gastric acid production caused by diet or psychological stress, while others may occur under normal gastric acid conditions but are exacerbated by increased abdominal p...

Understanding Why Small, Frequent Meals Help Manage Acid Reflux

Why should patients with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) eat smaller, more frequent meals? Doesn't this lead to continuous gastric acid secretion? However, I also experience abdominal pain three to four hours after meals. Is this the reason for recommending smaller, m...

Dr. Yang Peizhen reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: For patients with dyspepsia, if one eats too much in a single meal, the food will remain in the stomach for an extended period, leading to increased gastric acid secretion. After digestion, a significant amount of gas is produced in the stomach, resulting in bloating or be...