Acid Reflux and Asthma: What’s the Real Connection?

Understanding the Link Between Acid Reflux and Asthma

Acid reflux occurs when stomach acid flows back into the oesophagus, causing symptoms such as heartburn and regurgitation. Asthma, a chronic condition characterised by airway inflammation and difficulty breathing, can be directly influenced by acid reflux. Studies indicate a bidirectional relationship where acid reflux can worsen asthma symptoms, and asthma may exacerbate acid reflux. Acid reflux can irritate the oesophagus and trigger the vagus nerve, leading to airway constriction and asthma symptoms (Kerr, 2024).

• Night-time reflux episodes are common in asthma patients, potentially causing disrupted sleep and severe asthma attacks.
• Conversely, asthma-related coughing and pressure changes in the chest may increase the likelihood of acid reflux.

Common Symptoms of Acid Reflux and Asthma

These are the some of the symptoms might face for individuals, experiencing that are as follow:

Regurgitation

You may experience stomach acid, food, or liquids rising back up into your throat after eating, often leaving a sour taste.

Burning Sensation

Acid can irritate the lining of your esophagus, causing a burning feeling. If it occurs in your chest, it is known as heartburn; if it is closer to your stomach, it may feel like indigestion.

Chest Discomfort

Some individuals feel non-burning pain in the esophagus, which can mimic heart-related chest pain due to shared nerve pathways.

Nausea

Acid reflux may lead to feelings of queasiness or loss of appetite. Even if you ate earlier, it may feel like your food has not fully digested.

Throat Irritation

When acid reaches the throat, it can cause soreness, a sensation of a lump in the throat, or difficulty swallowing. This often happens at night.

Respiratory Symptoms

Acid reflux can lead to asthma-like issues such as chronic cough, wheezing, and shortness of breath. Acid reaching the airways may cause them to constrict, worsening symptoms.

These are some of the symptoms that individuals that might be affected with acid reflux that are common. With checking in with medical professionals from Gleneagles Hospitals to be able to acquire a check-up.

Diagnosis and Treatment Options for Acid Reflux and Asthma

Diagnosing and managing the interplay between acid reflux and asthma requires a comprehensive approach. Your doctor may recommend the following diagnosis test 

pH monitoring

Measures acid levels in the oesophagus over 24 hours to confirm reflux.

Endoscopy

Assesses esophageal damage caused by prolonged acid exposure.

Pulmonary function tests (PFTs) 

Evaluates lung function to identify asthma severity.

Treatment strategies

• Lifestyle changes:

  • Maintain a healthy weight to reduce pressure on the stomach.
  • Avoid trigger foods, such as spicy or fatty meals, caffeine, and alcohol.
  • Eat smaller meals and avoid eating 2-3 hours before bedtime.

• Medications:

  • Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) or H2 blockers to reduce stomach acid production.
  • Bronchodilators and inhaled corticosteroids for asthma symptom control.

• Surgical interventions:

  • In severe cases of acid reflux, procedures such as fundoplication may be recommended.

Collaboration between gastroenterologists and pulmonologists ensures optimal management tailored to individual needs.

Preventative Measures and When to Seek Medical Attention

Preventing the worsening of acid reflux and asthma requires vigilance and early intervention. Adopting the following measures can help reduce symptom severity and improve health outcomes:

Preventative tips

• Sleep with your head elevated to reduce acid backflow during the night.
• Quit smoking, as it weakens the lower esophageal sphincter and exacerbates asthma.
• Manage stress levels through relaxation techniques like yoga or mindfulness.
• Stay active, but avoid intense exercise immediately after meals.

When to seek help

• Persistent or worsening asthma symptoms despite treatment.
• Severe acid reflux symptoms, such as difficulty swallowing or unexplained weight loss.
• Frequent night-time asthma attacks disrupt sleep.

Delaying treatment can lead to complications such as oesophagitis or uncontrolled asthma.

Book an Appointment at Gleneagles Hospitals 

The intricate relationship between acid reflux and asthma underscores the importance of early diagnosis and comprehensive management. Addressing the root cause can significantly improve both conditions, leading to better respiratory health and overall quality of life. At Gleneagles Hospitals, our multidisciplinary team of specialists is equipped to provide personalised care, using the latest diagnostic tools and treatments to help you manage your symptoms effectively.

Take the first step towards better health today. Book your appointment with Gleneagles Hospitals now and let our experts guide you on your journey to wellness or you may also book an appointment by downloading the MyHealth360 application from the Google Play Store or Apple App Store.