Different Heartburn Causes

Heartburn occurs due to stomach acids flowing back into the esophagus. The most important heartburn causes is the malfunctioning of the lower esophageal sphincter. This element of the esophagus opens up and closes the passage from the stomach to the esophagus and in this way, it prevents the escape of acid reflux. During heartburn, it does not function properly and because of this stomach acids flow back into the esophagus. This can be highly dangerous as the acidic nature of the fluids can cause inflammation of the esophageal lining and also have several other effects.

There are many causes of heartburn. People suffering from hiatel hernia suffer from heartburn in most case and as such, it can be attributed as one of the heartburn causes.  Esophageal contractions can also cause heartburn. Whenever we swallow, a wave of contraction takes place in the esophageal muscles which reduces or narrows the inner chamber of the esophagus to allow the transport of food. At times, this wave of contraction can be too short or may not even begin after the swallowing process, leading to acid reflux.

One of the main heartburn causes is an improper and imbalanced diet. People indulge in eating fast food and unhealthy food which leads to heartburn.  Foods such as chocolate, beverages such as coffee and all carbonated beverages, fruits and vegetables that are of an acidic nature such as tomatoes, onions, oranges and grapes, medicines such as aspirin and several other anti-inflammatory medicines, juices of fruits and vegetables that are of an acidic nature such as orange, grape and pineapple, all alcoholic beverages and spicy foods lead to heartburn. A proper diet has to be maintained and all such foods which can lead to heartburn should be avoided. People who overeat also are at a risk of suffering from this condition.

The chemical nicotine, which is present in cigarettes, calms and relaxes the lower esophageal sphincter and this can lead to acid reflux, hence such habits should be immediately stopped and avoided. Foods that are high in fat content and vegetable or animal oils also increase the chances of suffering from heartburn. Wearing clothes or belts that are extremely tight and uncomfortable can lead to heartburn. Food should always be taken in fixed timings and preferably a couple of hours before bedtime as then, the food can get easily digested by the time we sleep, otherwise eating before bedtime can definitely lead to acid reflux.

Conditions such as pregnancy and obesity also cause acid reflux as they increase the pressure on the stomach.  Maintaining an ideal weight is required in order to avoid heartburn. The most effective way to stay fit and avoid heartburn is to exercise. At least 2-3 hours in a day must be dedicated to exercise and activities such as walking, jogging or working out in the gym are highly recommended. Pre-existing medical conditions such as scleroderma and sarcoidosis also cause heartburn. Thus, these are the different causes of heartburn.