Acid reflux — or gastroesophageal reflux diseases (GERD) — is caused when stomach acids leak into the esophagus. Heartburn, nausea, sore throats, hoarseness, swallowing difficulties, and regurgitation can all be caused by acid reflux. Acid reflux is common and often treatable through a few simple changes in lifestyle.
Causes of Acid Reflux
Acid reflux can be caused by a number of things, many of them lifestyle-based.
Common causes for reflux
- Cigarette and alcohol consumption
- Poor eating habits (including fried, fatty, acidic, and overly spicy foods)
- Caffeinated drinks
- Bad posture
- Pregnancy
- Certain medications
- Diabetes
Treating Reflux
Treating reflux can be as simple as making certain lifestyle changes, like avoiding foods and beverages that trigger reflux, quitting smoking, losing weight, and improving your posture.