Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) and Acid Reflux are both very common health conditions, but what many people don’t realize is that they can often occur together. When this happens, it can cause even more serious health issues. Here, we will unpack and reveal the interconnection between OSA and Acid Reflux, as well as provide guidance on how to manage and prevent their potential effects.
What Is Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA)?
Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) is a condition in which the muscles in your throat fail to keep the airway open while you sleep, causing you to stop breathing for small periods of time. The dangers of prolonged OSA are high blood pressure, heart disease, and a significantly increased risk of stroke — to mention just a few. OSA is often accompanied by loud snoring, morning headaches, difficulty concentrating, and frequent waking during the night.
What Is Acid Reflux?
Acid Reflux is a common digestive condition, characterized by heartburn, nausea, burping, and an acidic taste in the mouth. When the esophagus is exposed to stomach acid on a regular basis, it can become damaged and may lead to more serious health problems such as esophageal cancer.
The Link Between OSA and Acid Reflux
One potential link between OSA and Acid Reflux is the position of the head when we sleep. People who sleep on their backs are more likely to experience OSA, while those who sleep on their side might be at a higher risk for Acid Reflux. When we lay on our backs, the throat is more likely to be blocked by the tongue and other tissues, leading to OSA. Sleeping on our side, however, can result in acid from the stomach being allowed to flow more easily into the esophagus, increasing the risk for Acid Reflux.
In addition to position, the timing of OSA and Acid Reflux are also significant. Research has indicated a strong correlation between periods of OSA and the presence of Acid Reflux. In other words, people with OSA are more likely to experience Acid Reflux when they aren’t experiencing an apnea episode. Furthermore, studies have shown that the severity of both conditions can be amplified when they occur together.
Managing and Preventing the Complications of OSA and Acid Reflux
In order to prevent the potential health complications that can arise from OSA and Acid Reflux, it is important to be aware of the links between the two conditions. For someone suffering from one, it is crucial to keep an eye out for the symptoms of the other and take steps to prevent its occurrence.
For OSA, doctors will typically advise losing weight, avoiding alcohol and sedatives, and getting plenty of exercise. Additionally, many people find relief by using a CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) machine, which continuously delivers air to the airway to keep it open.
However, it’s important not to ignore the symptoms of Acid Reflux when attempting to manage OSA. To reduce the likelihood of Acid Reflux while undergoing treatment for OSA, individuals can try:
- Eating smaller, more frequent meals to help with digestion
- Avoiding eating or drinking up to three hours before bedtime
- Avoiding foods and drinks that might trigger heartburn (e.g. high-fat foods, chocolate, coffee, and alcohol)
- Elevating the head of the bed
Conclusions
Obstructive Sleep Apnea and Acid Reflux are both common health conditions that can occur independently, but research has revealed that they can also often appear together. When this occurs, the effects of both of the conditions can be more severe. Taking steps to manage and minimize the risk of these conditions is crucial. By being more aware of the links between OSA and Acid Reflux, individuals can control the impact of these conditions and participate in a healthier, more secure lifestyle.