Related Experiment Videos
Sleep-related gastroesophageal reflux.
1Department of Medicine, Division of Pulmonary, Allergy, Critical Care and Occupational Medicine, Indiana University School of Medicine, 550 University Blvd, University Hospital 5450, Indianapolis, IN 76202-5250, USA.
The Journal of the American Osteopathic Association
|February 24, 2001
Summary
Sleep disturbances, particularly obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), can worsen gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Effective treatment requires addressing both OSA and GERD aggressively for symptom control.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Sleep Medicine
- Pulmonology
Background:
- Sleep physiology can promote gastroesophageal reflux (GER) and aspiration.
- Sleep disorders, especially obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), are frequently linked to GER.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review current information on the relationship between OSA and GER.
- To highlight how OSA can complicate GER management.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies on OSA and GER.
- Analysis of physiological changes during sleep that affect GER.
Main Results:
- OSA is associated with high GER frequency, likely due to negative intrathoracic pressure and obesity.
- OSA can lead to refractory GER with predominantly nocturnal symptoms.
- GER symptoms in OSA patients may not always reflect the underlying pathology.
Conclusions:
- Aggressive, combined treatment regimens are typically necessary for both OSA and GER.
- Understanding the interplay between OSA and GER is crucial for effective patient management.