Have you ever heard of reflux? It is quite common in babies, yet it can also affect adults and children. Keep on reading for more information.
What is apnea? Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a condition characterized by the obstruction of the upper airways during sleep. Usually, this obstruction is accompanied by a decrease in blood oxygen saturation, followed by a brief awakening during the night to breathe. The main episodes of this disorder during sleep are loud and frequent snoring, breathing pauses and sleep fragmentation. Consequently, these symptoms trigger several hardships throughout the day including excessive daytime drowsiness, cognitive alterations, and morning headaches. If you present any of these symptoms, your physician will provide a diagnosis by prescribing the appropriate sleep monitoring exams.
Relationship between Sleep Apnea and Reflux
Among the diseases related to apnea, there is reflux, also known as heartburn or acid indigestion. It is characterized by the return of stomach contents, such as acid or bile, to the esophagus, which consequently becomes inflamed and causes pain in the lower chest. This occurs when the esophageal sphincter (a type of ring) does not function properly. In adults, the malfunction of the valve is related to genetic issues and environmental factors such as stress, tobacco and alcohol consumption, sleep disorders, and poor nutrition.
The signs of reflux can be heartburn (that is, a burning sensation you may have experienced), pain, nausea, and the return of stomach contents. Symptoms can also include chronic cough, sputum, hoarseness, the sensation of catarrh in the throat, a bitter taste in the mouth, and chest pain.
Can apnea cause reflux? The article titled “Reflux Can Be Associated with Obstructive Sleep Apnea” , published in https://esteticderm.com.br/, states that “a study presented in 2009 at a congress in the United States indicated that 35% of patients with obstructive sleep apnea suffer from gastroesophageal reflux.” This is because sleep apnea alters the functioning of the digestive system and paralyzes the valve between the stomach and esophagus, making reflux more likely. Additionally, the sleep position of the individual can contribute to the valve's malfunction and cause stomach contents to rise.
The Importance of Diagnosing Sleep Apnea
Considering that sleep apnea can be the main cause of several problems, including reflux, the main step involves seeking a sleep specialist to receive a proper diagnosis.
On the one hand, there is the Biologix Sleep Test® , a simple, practical, and efficient test that can be conducted at home. You just need to place the sensor on your finger before going to sleep and start the test on the Biologix app. When waking up the next morning, tap on “Finish test”, and you will receive the results via email in a matter of seconds.
On the other hand, the diagnosis can be carried out through a study known as polysomnography, . This exam is more complex and requires the patient to spend the night in a sleep lab. The patient is monitored with sensors that record the airflow through the nose and mouth, blood oxygenation, heart rate, brain activity, and movements of the chest and limbs.
When diagnosing sleep apnea, it is crucial to evaluate the patient’s health as a whole to ensure comprehensive treatment.
Generally, the treatment for reflux involves the use of antacids and diet adjustments. For mild sleep apnea , lifestyle changes such as losing weight, reducing alcohol consumption during the night, and altering sleep habits are common recommendations. In moderate or severe cases, oral appliances, designed to position the jaw forward, or Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP)are used to treat this disorder. The latter consists of a device that helps the patient to breathe during sleep or, in severe cases, during surgery.
IMPORTANT! Only properly qualified physicians and dental surgeons can diagnose diseases, recommend treatments and prescribe medications. The information available herein is for educational purposes only.
