Sleep apnea is commonly linked to many health-related issues, such as cardiovascular disease, dementia, Alzheimer’s, and even acid reflux. Whether it’s a need to clear your throat or a persistent cough bothering you, it may be tied to your inability to breathe freely while asleep. Read on to learn more about the connection between these two and what you can do to get relief.
How Are Sleep Apnea & Acid Reflux Connected?
When you are unable to breathe because of an airway obstruction, pressure that builds in your chest can cause stomach acid to move into the throat. As a result, it irritates the larynx. This persistent problem can cause redness, swelling, and other similar symptoms associated with laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR).
Alternatively, many researchers believe that GERD-related symptoms (i.e., acid reflux and inflammation) can hinder the esophagus, causing the upper airway muscles to relax. This, in turn, makes it easier for an obstruction to occur.
How Can You Address This Problem?
Since it is not only addressing sleep apnea or acid reflux, the two must be treated collaboratively if symptoms are to improve. You can do this by:
- At-Home Remedies: Sleeping with your head elevated can reduce the chances of acid reflux by preventing stomach acid from reaching your throat. You might also avoid eating at least 3 hours before bedtime, as this will reduce stomach pressure. It’s also important to note that you should stop smoking and limit alcohol consumption.
- Professional Interventions: Talk to your doctor about GERD treatment options that help coat the stomach so that reflux does not occur.
- Sleep Apnea Treatment: By seeing your dentist for sleep apnea treatment, you can begin to not only breathe easily and sleep better but also improve your acid reflux symptoms. With continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy, the device can reduce the pressure in the chest that causes stomach acid to rise. If you are CPAP intolerant, your dentist can recommend oral appliance therapy (OAT). This not only keeps your airway open by repositioning your lower jaw, but it also reduces nighttime reflux and heartburn.
Don’t continue to suffer from nighttime acid reflux and frequent sleep interruptions. Get the help you need by talking to your local dentist so that an appropriate treatment plan can be tailored to help you succeed.
About Grand Dental – Naperville
Living with sleep apnea and acid reflux can be problematic, but it doesn’t have to decrease your quality of life. With sleep apnea treatment from Grand Dental – Naperville, our esteemed dental experts can develop a plan that addresses the underlying issue and improves your nighttime rest. If you want to avoid heartburn and get much-needed rest, visit our website or call us at (630) 576-9970 to schedule a consultation.