Sleep apnea is a disorder in which breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep. This can lead to fragmented sleep, daytime fatigue, and a higher risk of heart disease and other health problems. Acid reflux, or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), occurs when stomach acid frequently flows back into the tube connecting your mouth and stomach (esophagus). This can irritate the lining of the esophagus and lead to complications like esophageal damage.
Understanding and managing the relationship between sleep apnea and acid reflux is essential for improving sleep quality and overall health. With the right treatment and lifestyle changes, patients can mitigate the effects of these conditions.