What Causes GERD?
Reviewed: Dr. Gromatzky
5. Smoking
If you are a smoker then there are numerous reasons why you should try and quit the habit. It can cause considerable health problems in the short term and in the long term, and potentially shorten the patient’s life considerably. One of the many symptoms that smoking can cause is GERD.
When we smoke, nicotine is sent surging through our blood stream, and nicotine is a relaxant. Its relaxing properties can cause our muscles to relax, and the esophageal sphincter is no exception. With the muscle released, digestive juices are able to leak out, and this can result in heartburn.
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