There is a documented asthma and acid reflux connection where reflux can trigger asthma attacks, while asthma symptoms may also increase the severity of reflux.
What is the nature of the asthma and acid reflux connection?
Acid reflux occurs when stomach contents flow back into the esophagus, and this condition often appears alongside asthma. Patients with asthma may be diagnosed with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), a chronic form of reflux that can cause esophageal damage.
Due to this link, treating GERD may help improve asthma control. It is worth noting that some asthma medications, such as theophylline, may increase the likelihood of reflux, although this drug is no longer commonly used.
The difference between acid reflux and GERD
Acid reflux differs from the chronic disease in the following ways:
- Acid reflux: The flow of stomach acid into the esophagus. Many people experience this occasionally after heavy meals or consuming caffeine and alcohol; it does not necessarily indicate a medical condition.
- Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD): This is classified as a chronic disease if symptoms recur two or more times per week, or if the reflux causes damage to the esophageal tissue, which may increase the risk of esophageal cancer or Barrett’s esophagus.
How to treat asthma and reflux
Various treatment options exist to control these conditions:
Lifestyle changes
- Maintain a healthy weight and avoid tight clothing.
- Stop smoking.
- Avoid triggers such as fatty foods, spicy foods, chocolate, peppermint, caffeine, and carbonated drinks.
- Elevate the head of the bed during sleep or lie on the left side.
- Chew food thoroughly and avoid lying down immediately after eating.
Pharmacological and surgical interventions
- Antacids: Over-the-counter medications to relieve occasional heartburn.
- Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs): Such as omeprazole, esomeprazole, and lansoprazole, which help manage asthma in those with the disease.
- H2 Blockers: Such as famotidine, cimetidine, and nizatidine.
- Surgery: An option for severe cases, though it may cause complications for 20% of patients, such as bloating and difficulty vomiting.
- Modern techniques: A study showed the use of a bracelet-like device with magnetic beads that supports the valve between the esophagus and stomach; it relieved symptoms for 92 out of 100 patients and allowed 87 patients to stop acid medications, although 68% experienced temporary swallowing difficulties.
FAQ
How does acid reflux affect asthma?
Yes, acid reflux can trigger asthma attacks, and conversely, asthma symptoms may exacerbate reflux.
Are acid reflux and GERD the same thing?
No, acid reflux is an occasional event that most people experience, while GERD is a chronic medical condition with symptoms recurring twice weekly or causing esophageal damage.
What are the symptoms of GERD?
Symptoms include heartburn when lying down or after eating, acidic food or liquids returning to the throat, chest or upper abdominal pain, a persistent cough, and difficulty swallowing.
When to visit a doctor?
You should consult a healthcare professional in the following cases:
- Heartburn symptoms appear two or more times per week.
- The need to use over-the-counter antacids two or more times a week.
- The desire to add proton pump inhibitors to the treatment plan.
- Before making any changes to an asthma treatment plan.
Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and does not substitute for professional medical advice.
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Illustration: AI-generated
approved by: Medica Health team