Risk factors associated with GERD: Essential Information
In the realm of digestive health, Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) remains a prevalent issue, affecting approximately 1 in 5 people in the United States. While obesity and hiatal hernia are well-known risk factors, recent studies have shed light on other contributing factors that can impact GERD risk and symptom severity.
Smoking, pregnancy, specific dietary patterns, stress, air pollution exposure, age, gender, and socioeconomic factors all play significant roles in the development and worsening of GERD symptoms.
Smoking, for instance, is a known risk factor that can worsen GERD by relaxing the lower esophageal sphincter and impairing esophageal clearance, thus increasing acid reflux risk. Pregnancy, on the other hand, increases intra-abdominal pressure and hormonal changes that relax the esophageal sphincter, making GERD more common.
Dietary factors such as the consumption of fatty foods, processed meats, high-glycemic index foods, and certain dairy products can exacerbate GERD by relaxing the esophageal sphincter or delaying gastric emptying. Stress and psychological factors may influence GERD symptoms by altering esophageal sensitivity and motility.
Air pollution, including long-term exposure to particulate matter and gaseous pollutants like NOx, has been linked to a higher risk of developing GERD, particularly in females, middle-aged individuals, and those who are overweight. Age and gender also play roles, with GERD prevalence increasing with age and women appearing to be more sensitive to certain risk factors.
Socioeconomic status and lifestyle patterns associated with higher SES may influence GERD risk due to dietary habits and healthcare-seeking behavior. Exercise, however, has a more variable relationship: vigorous or improper exercise can sometimes exacerbate symptoms by increasing intra-abdominal pressure, but regular moderate exercise is generally beneficial.
Certain medications such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, benzodiazepines, some asthma medications, tricyclic antidepressants, calcium channel blockers can cause GERD or worsen symptoms in those with GERD. Gastroparesis, a condition where the stomach takes a long time to empty, can increase the risk of GERD due to delayed stomach emptying leading to increased acid production, food causing acid reflux, and more food or acid in the stomach.
Eating large meals or eating just before bed may increase a person's risk of GERD by up to 20%. Obesity can exacerbate reflux symptoms and increase the risk of developing GERD by putting pressure on the abdomen, making the lower esophagus open more frequently, and reducing the resting pressure of the esophagus opening.
If you experience GERD symptoms such as heartburn, or symptoms that do not improve with medication or lifestyle changes, it is essential to consult a doctor. Pregnancy can cause GERD due to hormonal changes, abdominal pressure, weight gain, and nausea and vomiting.
People with connective tissue disorders who also develop GERD are likely to have severe symptoms. Dietary risk factors for GERD may include consuming fatty, fried, sour, spicy food, orange or grapefruit juice, tomatoes or tomato preserves, chocolate, and carbonated drinks.
Stopping smoking can improve a person's quality of life, and exercising less than once a month may increase the risk of developing GERD. While the exact relationship between lifestyle factors and the risk of GERD is not fully understood, some factors may increase the risk, such as eating large meals late at night and drinking coffee or alcohol.
If you experience symptoms that could indicate GERD complications such as chest pain, persistent vomiting, lack of appetite, problems swallowing, pain swallowing, unexplained weight loss, vomit that looks similar to coffee grounds, bloody stool, stool that looks black or tarry, it is crucial to contact a doctor immediately.
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