Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is characterized by indigestion and acid reflux, whereas obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is characterized by repeated breathing interruptions during sleep.

At first glance, these two conditions don’t sound anything alike. But some people can oftentimes have both GERD and OSA because these conditions share some risk factors. What’s more, having GERD increases the risk of developing sleep apnea, and vice versa.

Here’s the connection between these two conditions:

The Connection Between GERD and OSA

Various studies in the past have identified a connection between GERD and OSA. A recent study confirmed the link and suggested that about 12% of GERD patients also suffered from obstructive sleep apnea.

In short, in GERD, stomach contents and acid move up into the esophagus, a tube that connects the stomach and throat. In some cases, esophageal irritation can negatively impact breathing during sleep. Indeed, 80% of GERD patients have worsened symptoms at night, mainly due to gravity when in a horizontal position.

Furthermore, according to research, sleep apnea is also linked with GERD. And, according to another recent study, sleep apnea patients are at a higher risk of developing GERD, mainly due to the sleep apnea-caused pressure changes. Precisely speaking, pressure changes within the esophagus contribute to a higher risk of acid reflux.

Therefore, we can conclude that some people can develop GERD as a result of sleep apnea, or develop OSA as a result of GERD. Or, some people can simply have an increased risk of developing both conditions due to having the specific risk factors. Nevertheless, further research is needed on the connection between these two conditions.

The Risk Factors for GERD and OSA

According to statistics, around 12% of GERD patients have OSA as well. Similarly, nearly13% of sleep apnea patients also have GERD. In other words, around 12% of people with one condition have also developed the other.

Several factors can contribute to an increased risk of suffering from both conditions. Here are some of them:

• Obesity
• Diabetes
• Hypertension
• Heart failure
• Smoking

Another important thing to consider is that having GERD or sleep apnea can also lead to an increased risk of developing the other condition.

GERD and OSA Treatment Options

Since GERD and OSA are two separate and quite different conditions, their medical treatments also differ.

When it comes to GERD, standard treatment options can include medications like:

• Proton pump inhibitors
• H2 blockers
• Antiacids

On the other hand, common OSA treatment options include medical devices like:

• Sleep equipment, like a mask and tubing
• Mandibular repositioning mouthpieces
• Tongue-retaining devices

Apart from medical treatments, implementing certain lifestyle changes can also help improve and manage both conditions. Here’s what you should consider:

• Maintain a moderate and healthy weight
• Get enough physical activity regularly
• Avoid or reduce alcohol consumption
• Avoid or quit smoking
• Sleep on the side or use a wedge pillow

Final Thoughts

GERD and OSA are two separate conditions that, at first glance, seem to have no connection.  But, they have some risk factors in common, such as smoking, diabetes, and obesity. That’s why the two can often come together. Having GERD increases the risk of OSA, and having OSA increases the risk of GERD. Yet, more research is needed to identify the link between these conditions.