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Is there a connection between GERD and sleep apnea?

  • ESP
  • 5 days ago
  • 3 min read

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It is possible for an individual to have both gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and sleep apnea. Some risk factors are the same for both conditions.


GERD causes symptoms like indigestion and acid reflux. Sleep apnea involves breathing difficulties during sleep.

Risk factors for having both conditions may include diabetes, obesity, and smoking (if applicable). Having one condition may also raise the chance of developing the other.

This article explores the connection between GERD and sleep apnea. Keep reading to learn about the possible link between these conditions.


Is there a link between GERD and sleep apnea? 


Multiple studies have found a link between GERD and sleep apnea. In a 2022 study, around 12% of participants with GERD also had obstructive sleep apnea.


In GERD, stomach acid travels back up the esophagus, a tube connecting the throat and stomach. In some instances, irritation to the esophagus may have a negative effect on nighttime breathing. According to the International Foundation for Gastrointestinal Disorders, 4 in 5 people with GERD experience symptoms at night.


Researchers have also found that sleep apnea may have links with GERD. A 2023 study found that individuals with sleep apnea may have a higher risk of developing GERD.

This may occur because of pressure changes caused by sleep apnea. Changes in pressure within the esophagus may increase the risk of acid reflux.


The research behind the link between GERD and sleep apnea remains limited. Some people may develop one of these conditions as a result of the other, or they may have certain risk factors that increase the chance of developing both conditions. More research is necessary to understand the possible relationship between them.


How many people have both GERD and sleep apnea?


A 2022 study looking at around 22.6 million people with GERD found that roughly 12% of people also had obstructive sleep apnea.


In a 2021study close to 13% of people with obstructive sleep apnea also had GERD.

It is difficult to estimate the number of people with both GERD and sleep apnea. However, these studies suggest that around 12% of people with one condition also have the other.


What are the risk factors for GERD and sleep apnea?  


Various risk factors can raise the chance of developing GERD and sleep apnea.

Certain individuals may be at risk of developing both GERD and sleep apnea. Risk factors that increase the chance of both of these conditions are

  • obesity

  • smoking, if a person smokes

  • diabetes

  • high blood pressure

  • heart failure


Developing either GERD or sleep apnea may also increase the chance of developing the other condition. A person can contact their doctor for advice if they have concerns about the risk factors for GERD and sleep apnea.



What are the treatments for GERD and sleep apnea?




For sleep apnea, treatment may involve medical devices like:

  • continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machine

  • tongue-retaining devices

  • mandibular repositioning mouthpieces



Lifestyle changes may help a person manage both conditions, and they include:

  • maintaining a moderate weight

  • getting enough regular physical activity or exercise

  • reducing alcohol consumption, if a person drinks

  • avoiding or quitting smoking, if a person smokes


Certain sleeping positions may also help relieve nighttime symptoms. For example, sleeping on the side can promote open airways during sleep. This may help with sleep apnea symptoms. Elevating the head and upper back during sleep can also help ease GERD symptoms.


References


 
 
 

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211 Field Street  Bremen  Georgia  30110

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