Sleep apnea, a silent danger, a risk! acid reflux disease

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Sleep apnea, a silent danger, a risk! acid reflux disease

Sleep apnea and gastroesophageal reflux disease

Obstructive Sleep Apnea Syndrome (OSAS) and Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) are related and occur frequently in the same patient group. The main mechanisms are as follows:

Airway obstruction: In sleep apnea, the upper airway narrows, making it difficult to breathe. This creates increased negative pressure in the chest and abdomen. This negative pressure pushes stomach acid back up into the esophagus more easily.

Inflammation: Sleep apnea causes chronic inflammation that affects the respiratory and gastrointestinal systems, including the lower esophageal sphincter, making it easier for acid to reflux.

Obesity: Obesity is a major risk factor for both diseases. Obesity increases pressure in the abdomen, pushing the stomach up and pressing on the esophagus, making it easier for acid to reflux.

symptom

Sleep apnea: Snoring, sleep apnea, daytime sleepiness, morning headache, fatigue, poor memory.

Acid reflux: Heartburn, sour burping, nausea, choking, sore throat, hoarse voice.

How does obstructive sleep apnea (OSAS) worsen gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)?

There are two main mechanisms:

  1. Physiological changes during sleep cause reduced gastrointestinal motility, resulting in reduced efficiency of acid and food elimination. Reduced salivary secretion results in decreased neutralization of gastric acid. Increased intrathoracic and abdominal pressure results in gastric acid reflux. 
  2. The effort to breathe during sleep apnea results in negative pressure in the upper airway, which draws stomach acid back up. This, coupled with increased pressure in the chest and abdomen, pushes stomach acid back up.

result:

Acid reflux into the upper airway increases, the lower esophageal sphincter muscle relaxes more, more acid reflux results in inflammation of the esophagus, esophageal ulcers and an increased risk of esophageal cancer.

Treatment: 

Sleep apnea should be treated by a doctor immediately using a Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) breathing machine or surgically expanding the airway.

GED to cure acid reflux. Acid reflux disease should change eating behavior. In addition to changing behavior, using antacids to relieve initial symptoms is also important. Anyone with acid reflux symptoms should have antacids and gas-relieving drugs with them. When symptoms occur, they can be treated immediately. If symptoms worsen, consult a doctor to consider other treatment methods, such as surgery. 

Protection

Keep your weight within normal limits. Avoid foods and drinks that stimulate acid secretion. Sleep on your side and raise the head of the bed.

Caution: You should consult a doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment. Self-treatment can be serious.

summarize

Sleep apnea and GERD are related, affecting the physical, mental health and quality of life of the patient. Symptoms should be observed frequently and a diagnosis should be sought in order to receive timely treatment. If you have sleep apnea or are concerned about GERD, you should see a doctor or medical professional for assessment and proper diagnosis. Patients may need to undergo a polysomnography to monitor and analyze the breathing system during sleep. GERD uses endoscopy and pH monitoring. Improving the treatment regimen for sleep apnea may reduce the risk of GERD and improve quality of life. By following the advice of your doctor and medical professional, regular check-ups and treatment will ensure that you receive adequate and appropriate health care.