How to Determine Acid Reflux Related Sleep Apnea

Acid reflux can be quite painful and inconvenient. It costs money to get the proper medication, and can even turn into worse health problems. Sleep apnea is a sleep disorder that effects a lot of people worldwide. Some studies have now shown that some people may have acid reflux-related Sleep apnea. Sleep apnea's main symptom is when breathing stops several times a night during sleep. It is actually very common and can lead to other, worse health problems. Acid reflux is a digestive disorder that happens when acid keeps coming up into the esophagus, causing heartburn and possibly long-term damage to the esophagus.

Things You'll Need

• Journal
• Pen
• Determination
• Discipline

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Instructions

• 1

  Treat one and cure both. The best way to determine acid reflux-related sleep apnea is to treat the acid reflux first. If your sleep apnea symptoms begin to dissolve and eventually disappear, then you most likely had acid reflux-related sleep apnea. This will help you treat two different disorders in one shot!

• 2

  Visit your doctor. If you think you might have acid reflux-related sleep apnea, visit your medical professional for any advice they might have.

• 3

  Avoid heartburn. Acid reflux is caused by frequent heartburn. Get rid of it! Cut out any spicy foods from your diet completely. Try to also avoid heavy meals. If you must, at least do not eat a heavy meal 3 hours before you go to bed. Eat some healthy snacks before bed if you get hungry, such as papayas, pineapple, milk and/or crackers.

• 4

  Stop smoking. Smoking increases your chances of getting heartburn. There are many options out there that can help you quit smoking. The best place to get information on quitting smoking is your medical professionals office. You should also avoid alcohol. Coffee is also acidic and should be avoided. Try tea instead.

• 5

  Keep a food diary. Write down everything you eat every day and keep track of your symptoms. You can help determine which foods or drinks could be causing you discomfort so you can avoid them later.

• 6

  Do not wear tight clothing.

• 7

  Drink more glasses of water during the day. It can help you experience less heartburn, and it's good for you anyway. Tea can help as well.

• 8

  Relax. Heartburn can also be caused by stress and anxiety. Try meditation or other relaxation methods to help you relax on an on-going, daily basis. By doing all of these steps and committing to this lifestyle change you should see a significant improvement with your acid reflux and your sleep apnea. See your medical professional if you have any changes.