What is GERD? Learn the Causes of Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease

The precise reason for this disorder is not known.
One of the theories is the LES has an abnormality that causes it not to function properly.
Or it could be due to weak contractions causing it to allow the stomach contents back into the esophagus.
When there is an interruption in this routine, the esophagus does not function properly and this can cause GERD.
This could also cause reflux because the food is in the stomach for so long.
There are several, in fact that should be avoided if you suspect GERD is a problem from which you are suffering.
Sometimes just eating a big meal will cause this problem.


It is thought that certain drugs cause the LES to function improperly and this will cause this condition as well.
One thing that is known is there are more than half of the people who have asthma that also have GERD.
There are so many things that seem to be associated with this problem; it is hard to know for sure if they are the cause or if GERD is the cause of the other problems.


Here are a few of the drugs that are associated with this problem:

* Antibiotics

* Iron Pills

* Sedatives

* Dopamine

* Calcium Channel Blockers

* Potassium

Although some people suffer from heartburn on occasion due to overeating or eating food high in acid content, there are differences from occasional heartburn and GERD.
GERD is a recurring problem that is not just a result of an occasional meal or overeating.


The risk of developing stomach problems such as ulcers from the constant irritation is another thing that has to be considered when understanding what is GERD.