A risk factor is something that raises the chances of getting a health problem. A person can get GERD with or without the ones listed below. The chances of getting GERD are greater in people who have many.
This problem is more common in people who have other family members who have had it. Other things that may raise the risk are:
- Being overweight —It puts pressure on the stomach.
- Being pregnant—It puts pressure on the stomach.
- Excess alcohol use—It can harm the lining of the esophagus.
- Having health problems that weaken esophageal muscles, such as scleroderma
- Having a hiatal hernia —The top part of the stomach presses up into the chest. This puts pressure on the stomach.
- Taking certain medicines, such as those used for asthma , high blood pressure , or depression
- Smoking—It weakens the muscular ring between the esophagus and the stomach.
References
Acid reflux (GER and GERD) in adults. National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases website. Available at: https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/digestive-diseases/acid-reflux-ger-gerd-adults. Accessed March 18, 2022.
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). American Gastroenterological Association website. Available at: https://aga-cms-assets.s3.amazonaws.com/2018214195040---All%5FGERD%5F2017.pdf. Accessed March 18, 2022.
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). EBSCO DynaMed website. Available at: https://www.dynamed.com/condition/gastroesophageal-reflux-disease-gerd. Accessed March 18, 2022.
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Merck Manual Professional Version. Available at: https://www.merckmanuals.com/professional/gastrointestinal-disorders/esophageal-and-swallowing-disorders/gastroesophageal-reflux-disease-gerd. Accessed March 18, 2022.
Revision Information
- Reviewer: EBSCO Medical Review Board Daniel A. Ostrovsky, MD
- Review Date: 11/2021
- Update Date: 03/21/2022