Archive for May, 2009
Sleep Apnea and Acid Reflux Symptoms
The link between chronic acid reflux and sleeping disorders has been around for a long time. For the most part, which comes first is unknown. unidentified. Recently a study was completed in Germany that found acid reflux symptoms develop in people that suffer sleep apnea three times more frequently than in normally healthy people. Sleep apnea more frequently occurs in older overweight men.
Understanding Sleep Apnea at the same time. Sleep Apnea is a disorder where the person sleeping stops breathing for around ten seconds. It can last as long as a minute. During an episode of apnea, the lungs do not move, this may occur several times while asleep. The normal symptoms of sleep apnea are snoring, constant fatigue and morning headache.
What Is Acid Reflux
Acid reflux or GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease) is a digestive disorder where the stomach acids regurgitate into esophagus and cause damage of the mucus membrane. The burning sensation in the chest is the major symptom of the presence of stomach acid in the esophagus.
Those suffering from acid reflux have reported more cases of breathing trouble during sleep than those with sleep apnea alone. When someone has both acid reflux and sleep apnea, you must take the necessary precautions to counter this disorder so that they will not become a nuisance to your health in the future.
See Your Doctor
Some studies have suggested that treating the acid reflux would provide relief for many sleep apnea patients. Each condition could have serious repercussions if not treated properly. It has also been shown that severe acid reflux will make the sleep apnea worse.
Sleep Apnea And Acid Reflux Final Thoughts
Sleep apnea and acid reflux are both associated with being overweight. A diet that is heavy in sugar, fast food and fat may cause obesity. portliness. A healthy diet can go a long way in averting both acid reflux and sleep apnea.
It is imperative that fatty, greasy, and sugary foods are avoided as much as possible to minimize instances of acid reflux. These kinds of foods have been shown to raise the chance of regurgitation, which cause acid reflux. Avoidance of these foods will help in defeating your problem.
smart idea not to eat spicy foods and not to consume big meals especially two to three hours before bedtime. If you need to eat within 2-3 hours before bed then try eating fruits like pineapple. Crackers and a glass of warm milk are good for the digestive system also.