Cause of Gastric reflux disease

In summary, GERD is commonly associated with an overproduction of hydrochloric acid in the stomach, which is necessary for proper digestion. However, in acid reflux, the acid that comes up the esophagus is not lactic acid, as some may believe, but rather a result of the lower esophageal sphincter failing to close properly. There is no one absolute cause for GERD, as it is often a result of a combination of factors such as diet and weight. It is important to seek medical advice for proper treatment.
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mktsgm
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People generally associate Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) with excessive production of hydrochloric acid in the stomach. We know that HCL is essential for proper digestion. In acid reflux the acid comes up the esophagus from the stomach due to the insufficiency of esophageal sphincter. But what is the acid that comes up? Is it HCL or lactic acid?

Edit: Inappropriate sources removed by moderator

And the real cause is under-production of HCL and not the over-production of HCL! Can anyone throw some light on this?
 
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Okay.

First off - a very important point. Do not just ask google 'causes of GERD' (Gastroesophageal reflux). Most of the stuff you will see on the first result page is paid advertisements from fringe sites and supplement sellers. When you have a medical question google for example:

nih: causes of <disease name goes here>

Why? NIH and other national health organizations promote science and medicine, not products and services. The pages you link to are so-called "fringe" medicine sites. Not science at all.

Secondly, like many disease processes in humans GERD does not have direct a single indentifiable cause, but a common modality: lower esophageal sphincter fails to close when it should. There are lots of associations for GERD. No one absolute single cause. An association is something (behavior, problem, genetics, etc.) that is often, but never always present, in the person with the problem. The list of diseases that fit this model is very long. Because of genetic diversity in us humans many diseases are modeled as a Heredity <-> Environment interaction.

Answer: No. Lactic acid is not the problem.

Dietary changes and weight loss are step one. One of the associations is really spicy (hot) food consumption, for example. Does this match everyone with the problem? No.

Read here: https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/digestive-diseases/acid-reflux-ger-gerd-adults

If you have this problem see a physician. I realize that sometimes this is not practical but we cannot suggest treatment to anyone or diagnose anyone. Trained medical practitioners should do this for you.
 
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Good advice, thread closed.
 

FAQ: Cause of Gastric reflux disease

1. What causes gastric reflux disease?

Gastric reflux disease, also known as GERD, is caused by a weak or malfunctioning lower esophageal sphincter (LES). This is the muscle that separates the stomach from the esophagus and prevents stomach acid from flowing back up into the esophagus. When the LES is weak or relaxed, stomach acid can easily travel back up, leading to symptoms of GERD.

2. Can certain foods trigger gastric reflux disease?

Yes, certain foods can trigger gastric reflux disease. Common triggers include acidic or spicy foods, fatty or fried foods, caffeine, alcohol, and chocolate. However, triggers can vary from person to person, so it is important to pay attention to your individual triggers and avoid them to help manage symptoms of GERD.

3. Is gastric reflux disease hereditary?

There is evidence to suggest that genetics may play a role in the development of gastric reflux disease. Studies have shown that having a family history of GERD increases your risk of developing the condition. However, lifestyle factors such as diet and weight also play a significant role in the development of GERD.

4. Can stress contribute to gastric reflux disease?

Yes, stress can contribute to gastric reflux disease. Stress can increase stomach acid production and also weaken the LES, making it easier for stomach acid to flow back up into the esophagus. Additionally, stress can lead to behaviors such as overeating, smoking, and drinking alcohol, all of which can worsen symptoms of GERD.

5. How is the cause of gastric reflux disease diagnosed?

The cause of gastric reflux disease is typically diagnosed through a combination of a physical exam, medical history, and diagnostic tests. These tests may include an upper endoscopy to examine the esophagus and stomach, a pH test to measure acid levels in the esophagus, and/or a manometry test to measure the strength of the LES. Your doctor may also ask you to keep a food diary to track your symptoms and potential triggers.

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