GERD & Asthma

It has been observed that most of the asthma patients experience heartburn. People those who have Asthma are more likely to have GERD compared to those who do not have Asthma. Amongst the people having asthma, those who have chronic form of asthma, are more likely to have GERD.

Although studies have shown some relationship between GERD and Asthma, the exact relationship is uncertain. GERD  may worsen Asthma symptoms and Asthma symptoms and asthma medications may worsen GERD symptoms. Treating GERD often help getting relief to asthma symptoms also , indicating thereby some relationship between the two. Doctors look at GERD as the cause for asthma -

• when asthma starts in adulthood (adult onset asthma),
• when asthma condition worsens after meal,
• after exercise, at night 
• after lying down.
• When asthma does not respond to standard asthma treatment.

The exact link between GERD and asthma may be uncertain , there are few possibilities where they may be linked together. The possibilities of acids causing injury to the lining to the throat , airways , lungs, making breathing difficult and causing cough . Another link to asthma  for GERD patient is that as and when the acid enters the esophagus , a nerve reflex occurs which causes the airways to narrow down to prevent acid to enter. But, this narrowing down of the air passage causes shortness of breath all the same.

If someone is suffering from both GERD and Asthma, then he should take the asthma medications prescribed by the doctor diligently and also control asthma triggers as much as possible. Further, symptoms of GERD can be controlled as given below:

• While lying on the bed , Raise the head by six inches , to allow gravity to keep        stomach’s content in the stomach.
• Eat meals atleast 3 to 4 hrs. earlier  to going to bed or sleep.
• Eat smaller meals
• Maintain healthy body weight
• Limit fatty, oily foods.
• Avoid alcohol and tobacco.