When a baby is sleeping on the back, the upper respiratory airways are positioned above the oesophagus food pipe:the tube that carries food from the mouth to the stomach. Babies protect their airways by swallowing. Regurgitated milk from the oesophagus lies at the lowest level and can be easily swallowed.
It is difficult for the fluid to work against gravity and be pushed up and into the respiratory tract. This symptom is frequently associated with nighttime awakenings for people with GERD. There are several explanations for why GERD is commonly worse at night after going to bed:. A combination of these effects can facilitate the leakage of stomach acid into the esophagus and allow the acid to remain in place for longer, potentially causing more severe GERD symptoms , including those that can disturb sleep.
Chronic reflux and GERD can cause serious complications. These include inflammation and ulcers of the esophagus, scar tissue that narrows the esophagus, spasms affecting the airway, chronic cough, damage to teeth, and exacerbated asthma symptoms. Barrett esophagus is considered to be the primary risk factor for esophageal cancer although not everyone with the condition develops cancer.
The immediate cause of GERD is the inability of the muscles at the bottom of the esophagus to block reflux of stomach acid, but other underlying elements have been found to make that condition more likely.
These risk factors contribute to the chances of developing GERD. Flare ups of GERD symptoms after lying down can make it hard to fall asleep and can cause nighttime interruptions from heartburn, chest pain, and coughing.
Studies in sleep clinics of people with GERD have found that these symptoms are correlated with lower sleep quality. Research has also identified a link between GERD and obstructive sleep apnea OSA , a sleep disorder that involves blockage of the airway that incites pauses in breathing during sleep. It is possible that GERD affects the airway and ability to breathe normally, causing more apneas during the night. Lack of sleep from OSA may make the esophagus more susceptible to reflux.
In addition, factors like alcohol consumption, smoking, and obesity can increase risk for both GERD and OSA, so the correlation between the conditions may be a result of these factors. Because these are complex medical issues, a doctor can best examine the situation, determine the potential cause, order necessary tests, and recommend treatment. Treatment options can include both medical and non-medical approaches.
Lifestyle changes to reduce potential GERD triggers are a common aspect of managing the condition. Examples include reducing consumption of spicy and acidic foods, maintaining a healthy weight, and not smoking.
Over-the-counter medications like antacids can bring temporary relief but may be of limited effectiveness in many people. Other drugs, known as proton pump inhibitors PPIs and H2 blockers, try to reduce acid produced in the stomach. In rare cases when neither lifestyle changes nor medications have been effective, certain types of surgery may be considered to address GERD.
People with GERD who want to sleep better may be helped by considering their sleep hygiene , which includes all of the elements that shape their sleep environment and sleep-related habits. A high level of sleep hygiene can cut down on sleep interruptions and create more consistency in your nightly rest.
Many tips for healthy sleep overlap with lifestyle changes for GERD such as avoiding excess caffeine and alcohol. A stable sleep schedule, a relaxing pre-bed routine, and a quiet and comfortable bedroom are other central components of sleep hygiene. Eric Suni has over a decade of experience as a science writer and was previously an information specialist for the National Cancer Institute.
She specializes in helping parents establish healthy sleep habits for children. Terminology about sleep can be confusing. Our sleep dictionary clearly explains common sleep terms so that you can better understand…. This guide to diabetes and sleep discusses common sleep problems, consequences of sleep deprivation, and the link between type 2…. Some sleeping problems tend to go unnoticed.
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It is mandatory to procure user consent prior to running these cookies on your website. The Sleep Foundation editorial team is dedicated to providing content that meets the highest standards for accuracy and objectivity. Our editors and medical experts rigorously evaluate every article and guide to ensure the information is factual, up-to-date, and free of bias. Updated August 14, Written by Eric Suni. Medically Reviewed by Dr. Nilong Vyas. GERD is a condition marked by repeated episodes of reflux that affect quality of life.
Sign up below for your free gift. Your privacy is important to us. Suck on a peppermint. Eat a small amount of light, bland food, like plain crackers or bread. Avoid physical activity until you feel better, but try to avoid lying down. What do you do after you throw up at night? Do not eat or drink anything for several hours after vomiting. Sip small amounts of water or suck ice chips every 15 minutes for hours.
Next, sip clear liquids every 15 minutes for hours. Examples include water, sports drinks, flat soda, clear broth, gelatin, flavored ice, popsicles or apple juice. Can a child throw up and not be sick?
When vomiting is caused by reflux, food allergies or motion sickness, the underlying issue can be treated. A child who vomits one time and has no other symptoms should be fine, Dr.
Basu says. They may just have an upset stomach or strong gag reflex. Can you die in your sleep from acid reflux? GERD can have a dramatic impact on sleep, leading to risks of: aspirating breathing in stomach acid while asleep. How do you fall asleep when you feel like throwing up?
Chamomile tea is a popular folk remedy for nausea. It has a sedative effect that may help you sleep when you're nauseous. It may also ease anxiety. Chamomile tea bags are available at most grocery stores, natural health stores, and online.
Can acid reflux kill you? Although occasional acid reflux won't kill you, it should still be taken seriously. If left untreated, chronic acid reflux can lead to conditions that increase your risk for developing esophageal cancer, which can in fact kill you.
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