More than 75% of asthma patients are estimated to also have gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Managing GERD through lifestyle changes such as raising the head of the bed, eating smaller meals, and maintaining a healthy weight can help alleviate asthma symptoms.
How is GERD related to asthma?
It is estimated that more than 75% of asthma patients also experience GERD. Individuals with asthma are twice as likely to have GERD compared to those without asthma. Among people with asthma, those with severe, chronic, or treatment-resistant forms are more likely to also have GERD.
GERD occurs when acidic stomach contents flow back into the esophagus. When acid reaches the lower part of the esophagus, it can cause a burning sensation, commonly referred to as heartburn. If left untreated, GERD can eventually lead to lung damage, esophageal ulcers, and, in some cases, Barrett’s esophagus, a condition that can potentially lead to esophageal cancer.
Does GERD cause asthma?
While studies have shown a link between asthma and GERD, the exact relationship is still uncertain. GERD may worsen asthma symptoms, but asthma and certain asthma medications may, in turn, exacerbate GERD symptoms. However, treating GERD often helps relieve asthma symptoms, further indicating a connection between the two conditions.
Doctors often consider GERD as a potential cause of asthma when:
- Asthma starts in adulthood.
- Asthma symptoms worsen after meals, during exercise, at night, or after lying down.
- Asthma does not respond to standard treatments.
How can GERD affect my asthma?
Although the exact connection between GERD and asthma remains unclear, there are several ways the two conditions may overlap. One possibility is that acid reflux damages the lining of the throat, airways, and lungs, making breathing difficult and often triggering a persistent cough.
Another possibility is that when acid enters the esophagus, a reflex is triggered that causes the airways to constrict to prevent the acid from entering, leading to shortness of breath.
What should I do if I have both asthma and GERD?
If you have both asthma and GERD, it is important to consistently take your asthma medications as prescribed by your doctor and regularly monitor your asthma as much as possible.
Fortunately, many GERD symptoms can be managed or prevented by adjusting personal habits.
Steps you can take include:
- Raise the head of your bed to help keep stomach contents in the stomach with the assistance of gravity (avoid using stacks of pillows, as this can bend your body and worsen the condition by increasing abdominal pressure).
- Eat meals at least three to four hours before lying down, and avoid snacking before bedtime.
- Eat smaller meals with moderate portions.
- Maintain a healthy weight to eliminate excess intra-abdominal pressure caused by extra pounds.
- Limit the intake of fatty foods, chocolate, mint, coffee, tea, soda, and alcohol, all of which relax the lower esophageal sphincter, as well as tomatoes and citrus fruits or juices, which contribute to additional acid that can irritate the esophagus.
- Quit smoking, as it also relaxes the lower esophageal sphincter.
- Wear loose-fitting belts and clothing.
In addition to these measures, antacids can often relieve GERD symptoms. However, if these medications do not help after one to two weeks, your doctor may need to prescribe medication that blocks or reduces the amount of stomach acid your stomach produces. In rare cases, GERD may require surgical treatment.
