What Are the Causes of Silent Reflux?

Acid reflux occurs when stomach acid backs up from the stomach into the esophagus. Reflux typically causes symptoms such as heartburn, indigestion, coughing and hoarseness. Silent reflux is the same condition, except that it typically does not cause heartburn or indigestion.

Smoking

Smoking can increase the amount of acid in your stomach. It can also prevent the esophageal valve from functioning properly, which allows acid to back up into the esophagus.

Tight Clothing

Clothing that is tight around the abdomen can cause reflux by increasing pressure around your middle.

Lying Down after Eating

Lying down within two or three hours of eating can trigger reflux by encouraging acid to flow back up the esophagus instead of using the natural gravity of a vertical position to help it remaining in the stomach.

Diet

Fatty foods or foods with caffeine such as butter, chocolate and cheese can trigger reflux. Carbonated or acidic drinks, including coffee and cola, can also cause reflux.

Weight

Being overweight can cause reflux.

References

• Rotherham General Hospital: Silent Reflux Information for Patients
• WebMD: Treating Acid Reflux Disease with Diet and Lifestyle Changes