People who suffer from a condition called acid reflux often have difficulty sleeping at night, as acid reflux can be painful and make sleeping uncomfortable. Did you know that there is a known link between acid reflux and sleep apnea. Acid reflux could be a symptom of sleep apnea.
Acid reflux is an uncomfortable condition that is caused by stomach acid traveling back up your esophagus. Acid reflux is a common issue for many people; however, over-the-counter medication may help to minimize the effects.
What Is Acid Reflux?
Gastroesophageal reflux, which is also known as acid reflux, is a common condition that affects many adults. The condition is actually quite serious as untreated it can damage your esophagus with acid burns.
The muscles that are found at the bottom of the esophagus are supposed to stop any stomach acid from going up the esophagus. However, if the muscles are weak or relaxed, the acid may travel up the esophagus, causing acid reflux.
For many people, acid reflux is an uncommon occurrence, but for some, the condition can lead to issues and pain symptoms.
Known Symptoms of Acid Reflux
The symptoms of acid reflux are more noticeable at night, with symptoms often waking people up from them or causing people to suffer from sleep apnea.
The symptoms are:
- Acid reflux can cause heartburn, a searing pain that feels as if your heart is on fire.
- Chest pains that can also affect other areas of the body nearby. This includes the neck, back, and jaw.
- It can cause people to have a difficult time sleeping.
- It can cause people to wake up feeling like they are choking or that they need to cough.
- It can cause people to have a sore throat and a difficult time swallowing.
- Acid reflux can make people’s voices coarse and rough sounding.
Why is Acid Reflux Linked to Sleep Apnea
Acid reflux is known to be stronger at night. This is because as people are lying down on their beds, gravity is no longer keeping the acid down in the stomach. Instead, it allows the acid to travel up the esophagus and reach your mouth.
As sleep apnea can cause people to stop breathing, the air pressure from the lungs will change as a result. The change in pressure may cause acid reflux. The acid from the stomach is pushed up the esophagus and where it can burn and cause throat pain. Which may lead to disturbed sleeping patterns.
Acid reflux can also cause the throat muscles and the vocal cords to go into spasms, which may lead to trouble breathing. The acid in your stomach can also cause damage to your teeth by melting them away, leading you to need your teeth to be replaced or repaired. Dental implants may have to be done to replace any damaged teeth.
If you need a dental consultation for any damage that may have occurred from acid reflux, book an appointment with our friendly staff or contact Callahan and Klein Dental to see how we can help you get your beautiful smile and restful sleep back.
