There is no isolated cause that was determined for Gastro Oesophageal Reflux Disease. This generally refers to the weak or impaired lower oesophageal sphincter (muscular valve between the stomach and the oesophagus) that allows the stomach acid to flow back.
There are several risk factors that contribute to this condition, for example:
- Diseases such as Zollinger-Elison Syndrome and Scleroderma
- Increased production of gastrin, a hormone that regulates the release of stomach acid
- Obesity
- Pregnancy
- Smoking
- Use of certain medications