The Connection Between GERD and OSA

Hi I am Dr. Tom Drake with KC Sleep Health and today we are talking about the link between GERD and OSA.

GERD stands for gastroesophageal reflux disorder. This is where acids from the stomach is pulled up into the throat or esophagus.

OSA is defined as Obstructive Sleep Apnea. This is where the airway collapses and prevents a person from getting oxygen multiple times a night. 63% of people with OSA also have GERD. Since 80% of people who have OSA are undiagnosed and do not realize they have it . It stands to reason that many of the people suffering from GERD may also have OSA.

Do an experiment. Pinch your nose and try to breathe in with your mouth closed. Did you feel that negative pressure in your chest?

This is what can trigger GERD in people with sleep apnea because 50 to over 100 times a night they are getting that tugging pressure in their chest which can cause gastric reflux.

If you have GERD, then you really need to get checked for Obstructive Sleep Apnea because that could be the cause of GERD or at the very least make it worse. You are owe it to yourself to get tested.

Thank you for watching. This is sleep talk with Dr. Tom.