Acid reflux results from LES dysfunction and factors that increase stomach pressure or delay emptying. Common triggers include large or fatty meals, alcohol, caffeine, chocolate, peppermint, smoking, obesity, and pregnancy. Lifestyle changes, over-the-counter remedies, and prescription medications such as PPIs are the mainstays of treatment; alarm symptoms require prompt medical evaluation.

What is acid reflux?

Acid reflux (heartburn) happens when stomach contents flow back into the esophagus. Repeated reflux that causes symptoms or complications is called gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). The key mechanical problem in most cases is a weak or poorly coordinated lower esophageal sphincter (LES), the muscle that normally closes the bottom of the esophagus.

How reflux begins: the main mechanisms

LES dysfunction allows stomach acid and partially digested food to push upward. Contributing factors include a hiatal hernia, which changes the anatomy at the diaphragm and LES, and delayed gastric emptying, which increases stomach volume and pressure. Hormonal shifts in pregnancy can also relax the LES.

Certain medications can reduce LES tone or slow emptying, and obesity increases abdominal pressure on the stomach, promoting reflux.

Common dietary and behavioral triggers

  • Large meals and lying down soon after eating increase reflux risk.
  • High-fat or fried foods delay gastric emptying and can relax the LES.
  • Alcohol and caffeinated beverages (including some sodas) commonly trigger symptoms.
  • Chocolate and peppermint may relax the LES in susceptible people.
  • Spicy, acidic foods (tomatoes, citrus) can irritate an inflamed esophagus and worsen symptoms for some.
  • Smoking weakens LES function and impairs esophageal clearance.
Not everyone responds to the same triggers; identifying personal triggers helps control symptoms.

Typical symptoms

  • Heartburn (burning chest pain behind the breastbone)
  • Regurgitation of sour or bitter fluid into the mouth
  • Chronic cough, hoarseness, or throat clearing
  • Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia) or a sensation of a lump in the throat
Less common but important effects include dental erosion and asthma worsening from microaspiration.

When to seek medical care

See a clinician if you have trouble swallowing, unexplained weight loss, persistent vomiting, or signs of bleeding (black stools or vomiting blood). These are alarm features that require prompt evaluation.

Treatment approaches

Management begins with lifestyle measures: weight loss when appropriate, elevating the head of the bed, avoiding late large meals, and stopping tobacco. Over-the-counter antacids and histamine-2 blockers can relieve occasional symptoms. For frequent or severe reflux, proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) or other prescription treatments may be recommended, and testing (endoscopy, pH monitoring) can guide diagnosis and therapy.

Work with your clinician to tailor treatment, monitor response, and rule out complications if symptoms persist.

FAQs about What Causes Acid Reflux

Is pregnancy a cause of acid reflux?
Yes. Hormonal changes during pregnancy (notably progesterone) and increased abdominal pressure can relax the LES and promote reflux.
Do spicy foods cause acid reflux?
Spicy foods can irritate an already inflamed esophagus and trigger symptoms in some people, but they do not cause LES dysfunction by themselves.
Can weight loss reduce acid reflux?
Yes. Reducing excess weight lowers abdominal pressure on the stomach and often decreases reflux frequency and severity.
When should I see a doctor for acid reflux?
Seek care if you have difficulty swallowing, unintentional weight loss, persistent vomiting, or signs of gastrointestinal bleeding (black stools or vomiting blood).
Are over-the-counter medicines effective for acid reflux?
Antacids and H2 blockers can relieve occasional symptoms. People with frequent or severe reflux may need prescription therapy such as proton pump inhibitors and further diagnostic testing.

News about What Causes Acid Reflux

9 Causes of Acid Reflux and GERD - Health: Trusted and Empathetic Health and Wellness Information [Visit Site | Read More]

Major new study aims to improve surgery options for acid reflux patients - University of Oxford [Visit Site | Read More]

The nine acid reflux foods to avoid – and two that soothe heartburn - The Telegraph [Visit Site | Read More]

What Causes Acid Reflux at Night? - Hartford Hospital [Visit Site | Read More]

Acid reflux impacts about 20% of American adults. What causes it? - USA Today [Visit Site | Read More]

Do Nuts Cause Heartburn? - Everyday Health [Visit Site | Read More]

Is it really GERD? - Harvard Health [Visit Site | Read More]