1. Chicken-and-Egg Quandary
The relationship between gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and sleep apnea has researchers perplexed. Some believe that changes in airway pressure due to obstructive sleep apnea can cause acid reflux. Others think that acid reflux when sleeping can cause the vocal cords to spasm thereby triggering an episode of sleep apnea. Which comes first? The elusive answer may help determine acid reflux related sleep apnea. One thing that researchers agree upon is that they need to conduct more research on acid reflux related sleep apnea. A relationship between the two conditions is possible, but the two share common denominators that make it difficult to know without more studies. For example, both conditions occur at a higher rate with obesity, and the onset of both is typically after the age of 50. Also, gravity is a mechanism that helps keep acid needed for digestion in your stomach. By default, people with GERD generally experience more acid reflux when lying down to sleep.
2. A Tale of Two Conditions
The symptoms of sleep apnea involve a person having many episodes (50 or more) in which he stops breathing while asleep. Sleep apnea occurs when the tissues of the neck relax, temporarily obstructing the airway passages. The symptoms of acid reflux can include heartburn, regurgitation, coughing and choking, as well as pain in the upper back, neck, chest or high abdomen. The esophagus is equipped with a lower valve that should keep acid and other digestive fluids in the stomach. Acid reflux occurs when the sphincter can't do its job any longer and acid travels into the esophagus.
3. Silent Acid Reflux and Sleep Apnea
What you don't know can hurt you. Many people with sleep apnea have no idea they have it. However, it can increase the risk of high blood pressure and heart attack. Likewise, it's possible that people who are experiencing acid reflux while sleeping don't know it, but damage to the esophagus can occur and lead to cancer. So, it is important to determine if you have sleep apnea or acid reflux. Often a partner is the first person to notice if you have unusual nighttime breathing patterns. Don't ignore your partner's concerns--see your doctor if your partner suspects sleep apnea. If a doctor diagnoses you with sleep apnea, ask about a test for acid reflux disease.
