Reflux in adults is caused by frequent acid reflux or reflux of nonacidic content from the stomach. When you swallow, a circular band of muscle called the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) is supposed to close as soon as food passes through it. However, if the LES relaxes at the wrong time, stomach acid can back up into your esophagus, causing heartburn and other symptoms. Some common causes of reflux in adults include:

• Hiatal hernia: This occurs when the upper part of the stomach and LES move above the diaphragm, a muscle that separates your stomach from your chest. Normally, the diaphragm helps keep acid in your stomach. But if you have a hiatal hernia, acid can move up into your esophagus and cause symptoms of acid reflux disease.

• Weak or relaxed LES: GERD may develop if your lower esophageal sphincter becomes weak or relaxes when it shouldn’t. Factors that may affect the lower esophageal sphincter and lead to GERD include being overweight or having obesity, being pregnant, smoking or inhaling secondhand smoke, and certain medications.

• Temporary conditions: Temporary conditions can cause temporary acid reflux. For example, eating a large meal, eating too soon before bed, or consuming certain foods and drinks like chocolate, fatty or fried foods, coffee, and alcohol can make acid reflux worse if you already have it.

If you have severe GERD or it causes complications that medicine can’t help, you might need surgery. But surgery is usually minor and effective. It’s worth treating GERD to prevent its complications. To help manage acid reflux at home, you can try lifestyle changes such as losing weight, avoiding tight clothes or tight belts, eating smaller meals, and avoiding foods and drinks that make your symptoms worse.