• Obesity: Excessive weight puts pressure on the abdomen causing gastric content to be pushed up in the oesophagus.
• Tobacco: It stimulates acid secretion and relaxes the LES.
• Pregnancy: Pregnancy hormones and pressure of growing foetus may induce GERD.
• Family History: 30-40% of cases of GERD have been seen to have a hereditary component.
• Asthma: Patients with Asthma may suffer from GERD. The connection between the two may not be very clear. It is to be believed that the stomach acid that flows backwards in the esophagus damages the lining of the throat and the airways to the lungs over time. This can lead to breathing difficulties and a persistent cough. The acid may also trigger a nerve reflex, causing the airways to narrow and prevents the acid from entering the throat. This can also result in asthmatic symptoms.