How A Hiatus Hernia Might Cause Acid Reflux - By: Michelle S

The lower esophageal sphincter muscle can also be weakened by a hiatus hernia. Hiatus hernia is a very common disorder that results from the movement of the upper part of the stomach above the diaphragm into the chest area. Usually, hiatus hernias are thought to be insignificant clinically. These hernias are felt to be the result of a lack of muscle tone in the area of the diaphragm and a lack of muscle tone in the area of the LES valve.

The mechanism by which the hernia might cause reflux of acid from the stomach is unclear. In some cases of acid reflux disease, the development of a hiatus hernia may be the result of chronic inflammation of the lower esophagus, along with scar tissue, that together cause a narrowing of the lower esophagus and weaken the muscle tone of tissue in the LES valve area.

This can set the stage for the development of acid reflux. In people with severe symptoms, it has recently been found that the presence of a hiatus hernia results in more severe problems with reflux along with significant esophageal tissue damage.

Other Factors

The changes in functioning of the LES muscle that cause acid reflux are influenced by many other factors that differ from one person to another.

Smoking and Alcohol

For decades, those with symptoms of acid reflux have been advised to discontinue smoking and to avoid alcohol. Alcohol and cigarettes have been found to change the peristaltic movement of muscle throughout the esophagus and to reduce the muscle tone at the lower end of the esophagus at the LES.

Fatty Foods

Certain foods can also aggravate heartburn. Meals that are higher in fat content might contribute to decreasing muscle tone of the LES. High-fat meals are emptied from the stomach more slowly than low-fat meals, which may play a role in decreasing the LES muscle tone. Slower emptying of the stomach may contribute to inappropriate relaxation of the LES, enabling acid reflux to continue.

Troublesome Foods

Some foods have been identified as being "troublesome" factors in acid reflux, relaxing the LES valve or irritating the esophageal tissue.

Overweight and Obesity

Traditionally, obesity has been considered to be a factor in causing acid reflux, the result of obese abdominal tissue compressing the stomach area. The pressure exerted on the stomach may contribute to weakening of the LES valve, allowing acid and digestive juices to back up into the esophagus. When obese people with acid reflux problems lose weight, they often find that problems with heartburn and reflux significantly improve.

About the Author

One of the best actions you can do to take control of acid reflux is sticking to a balanced food plan. Merely by including certain foods in your diet you can noticeably cut down your acid reflux symptoms. Learn exactly how you can get started putting an end to your symptoms today.

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