Acid reflux is a harmful chronic disease which can be caused by many different factors. In this article, we’ll do an in-depth examination of what may be causing acid reflux disease.
One of the main reasons that people experience the caustic fluid backup that is characteristic of acid reflux is improper functioning of the lower esophageal sphincter, or LES muscles. These muscles are found at the base of the esophagus and provide a method of opening and closing the passageway to the stomach. When the LES muscles are weakened, they are often unable to fully close. This can result in acid from the stomach finding its way up into the esophagus.
Abnormalities of the esophagus are another reason why people are afflicted with acid reflux disease. Several different parts of the esophagus may be malformed, but two of the most common abnormalities that lead to acid reflux are peristalsis and a condition known as adult-ringed esophagus. In an adult-ringed esophagus, there are small rings in the throat which can cause an inability to swallow properly. Improper functioning of the stomach is another factor that can be responsible for acid reflux. Over fifty percent of all acid reflux sufferers have impaired stomach muscles that have difficulty responding quickly to stimuli. This can cause an extended period of time before the stomach is emptied of its contents, often leading to an acid backup in the esophagus.
Hiatal hernias are another reason that one may experience acid reflux. The hiatus is a hole that is located in the diaphragm, helping to secure the passageway between the esophagus and the stomach. The hiatus is usually tight, keeping the organs separate. However, if the hiatus is weakened, it can loosen up and lead to a small part of the stomach actually protruding through the hole. When this happens, a hiatal hernia is said to have occurred. While hiatal hernias are not fully responsible for acid reflux, they can lead to a lack of functioning in the LES muscles, which, as discussed previously, leads to acid reflux.
In addition to all of the aforementioned reasons that one may develop acid reflux, the role of certain drugs may also play a hand. NSAIDs, or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs may be responsible for the development of acid reflux and a worsening of the condition in those who already have it. These drugs are quite common, and some of the most recognized brands of NSAIDs include Motrin, Nuprin, Advil, and Aleve. A recent research study showed that people who regularly took these medications were as much as two times as likely to experience some symptoms of acid reflux.
Asthma and diabetes are two other things to consider when diagnosing the cause of acid reflux. At least half of all asthma sufferers are known to experience acid reflux, and we have not yet discovered which disease may be causing the other. Diabetes sufferers need to be wary of their eating habits when it comes to acid reflux; many diabetics suffer from gastroparesis, a condition that causes a delay in the emptying of the stomach. This can cause a backup in the stomach and consequently an acid buildup in the esophagus.

Hydration is a two way street- it must be done on the outside of the body as well as the inside. Hydration is an extremely important aspect of an eczema patient’s life as they are less likely to suffer as many flare-ups if their skin is kept well moisturized. Protecting the skin is key as is making sure the body has plenty of liquids on a daily basis. Hydration or to hydrate is defined as “supplying water to (a person, for example) in order to restore or maintain fluid balance.”

To keep eczema at bay one of the most important tips is to always, always, keep the skin well hydrated (moisturized is another word for hydrated). Skin that is rich in hydration holds in natural moisture and lubrication a great deal better than does dry skin and it also supports the skin at healing at a speedy rate. Any bath or beauty product that removes natural oils from a person’s skin should be avoided at all costs. Bubble bath, scented body washes, soaps, cleansers or scented lotions must all be avoided for eczema sufferers. Look for a moisturizer that is categorized as an emollient. Keep this in mind- the flakier and drier the skin is, the thicker a moisturizer should be used on the skin’s delicate surface.

When a bath is what you long for (a quick one, not a long one!) instead of bubble bath add emollient bath oil under running water. The emollient will soothe and hydrate your skin as you enjoy your bath. Apply a moisturizer when your skin is still damp. Just towel dry a little and then apply it and then finish patting yourself dry. Always use an emollient or another form of a moisturizer such as a lotion or cream on your sensitive eczema prone skin twice a day, morning and night, and more often if necessary. Keep in mind that cream moisturizers contain a high percentage of water and ointments a lower one, therefore cream formulas must be reapplied more times a day than ointments.

Hydrating on the inside is so important as well. Water is vital to good health. The human body is made up of sixty to seventy percent water (our blood being eight-three percent, and the brain a whopping seventy-four percent) but every day we lose water naturally from breathing, sweating and waste, as well as a result of exercise and environmental considerations such as heat and humidity. Aim to drink anywhere from six to eight glasses of purified water a day. Not only will this aid in the digestive process, but it will also help to detoxify your liver and kidneys and help to improve your sensitive skin. As well adequate hydration helps in the absorption of nutrients and carries waster material away as easily as can be. Once you become thirsty you are already dehydrated so you should try to never get to that point. Even if you are not thirsty, drink up anyway! Hydration is key and water is sometimes referred to as “Mother Nature’s healthy cocktail.”