Waking up in the middle of the night choking and coughing could signal anything from allergies to respiratory ailments, but gagging also can indicate acid reflux. The choking and coughing are sometimes accompanied by classic heartburn symptoms such as a burning sensation and an acid-like taste in the throat. Persistent reflux that occurs more than twice a week is considered GERD, or gastroesophageal reflux disease. Tests can determine whether you suffer from acid reflux disease; treatment options are available.
Acid Reflux Explained
Derived from the Latin word "refluere," defined as "to flow back, to recede," acid reflux is the condition whereby stomach acids and digestive juices surge back up into the esophagus. Lifestyle -- eating spicy or heavy foods, drinking alcohol, smoking, and being overweight -- can attribute to acid reflux. Indulging in fried foods, full-fat dairy, tomato products, even mint toothpaste at night can bring on bedtime episodes of heartburn and reflux. Hiatal hernias often lead to acid reflux, which you can relieve by sleeping with your head elevated at least seven inches.
Reflux Symptoms
The backwash of gastric juices results in discomfort and searing pain in the mid-chest, throat, and abdomen. Other signs of acid reflux include hoarseness and asthma symptoms, such as coughing or wheezing. Stomach acids splashing into the nose and mouth and, sometimes, the air passages of the lungs can cause this. In extreme cases, these fluids in the lungs cause what is known as aspiration pneumonia, pulmonary inflammation from inhaling foreign substances.
Dangers of Untreated Reflux
Letting night-time acid reflux drag continue is not a good strategy for a variety of reasons. The esophagus may become scarred, narrowing the passageway and causing swallowing difficulties. The lining of the esophagus can also bleed, ulcerate, or develop abnormal cells, a condition called Barrett's esophagus. Barrett's esophagus is thought to be a pre-cancerous situation, and esophageal cancer is often fatal. Untreated acid reflux and GERD may also aggravate or induce asthma, chronic coughs and pulmonary fibrosis.
Ways to Alleviate Acid Reflux
Recommended medications include over-the-counter antacids that combine magnesium, calcium and aluminum salts. H2 blockers and proton pump inhibitors can provide more long-term relief and are available in over-the-counter and prescription strengths. Check with a doctor before taking any medication. Lifestyle changes can also be effective. Lose weight, quit smoking, and limit alcohol consumption. Dispense with eating late at night or having dinner less than three hours before bedtime. Cut down on spicy foods, caffeine, carbonated beverages, tomato sauce, chocolate and citrus, or consume these items in moderation earlier in the day.
