Related Experiment Video
Updated: Sep 20, 2026

Drug-Induced Sleep Endoscopy (DISE) with Target Controlled Infusion (TCI) and Bispectral Analysis in Obstructive Sleep Apnea
Published on: December 6, 2016
Effect of sleep on gastroesophageal physiology and airway protective mechanisms
1Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston 77059, USA.
Abstract:
The sleeping state is accompanied by many changes in gastroesophageal function that may be of importance in the pathogenesis of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). At nighttime, gastric acid production is increased, gastric emptying is delayed, esophageal clearance is markedly delayed, and upper esophageal sphincter pressure diminishes significantly. Further, unlike daytime esophageal acid exposure, which appears more easily controlled with medical treatment, nocturnal gastric acid production appears difficult to suppress pharmacologically. Nighttime reflux may be associated with a greater prevalence of supraesophageal reflux symptoms as well. At the same time, protective airway reflexes may limit esophageal reflux in some patients. Derangements in the protective mechanisms should be elucidated, as these might account for susceptibility to GERD in patients with nighttime reflux.
Related Concept Videos
Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease
Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease I: Meaning and Pathophysiology
Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease II: Clinical Features and Management
Clinical Manifestations
GERD presents itself in a multitude of ways, with symptoms varying from person to person. The hallmark symptoms are...
Sleep Apnea
The condition is more prevalent among...
Physiology of the Gastrointestinal System I: Ingestion and Propulsion
Sleep-Wake Cycles
NREM Sleep
NREM sleep comprises four progressive stages that seamlessly merge:
