Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease and Sleep Disorders: Evidence for a Causal Link and Therapeutic Implications.
- Author:
Hye Kyung JUNG
1
;
Rok Seon CHOUNG
;
Nicholas J TALLEY
Author Information
1. School of Medicine, Ewha Womans University, Seoul, Korea.
- Publication Type:Review
- Keywords:
Sleep;
Gastroesophageal reflux disease
- MeSH:
Aluminum Hydroxide;
Carbonates;
Deglutition;
Gastric Acid;
Gastroesophageal Reflux;
Quality of Life;
Salivation;
Sleep Wake Disorders
- From:Journal of Neurogastroenterology and Motility
2010;16(1):22-29
- CountryRepublic of Korea
- Language:English
-
Abstract:
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and sleep disturbances are both common health problems. There is a significant association between disturbed sleep and GERD, and this may be bidirectional. Sleep disorders may induce gastrointestinal (GI) disturbances, while GI symptoms also may provoke or worsen sleep derangements. Reflux of gastric acid is a less frequent event during sleep, however, acid clearance mechanisms (including swallowing, salivation and primary esophageal motility) are impaired during sleep resulting in prolongation of acid contact time. Nighttime reflux can lead to sleep disturbance and sleep disturbance may further aggravate GERD by prolonged acid contact time and heightened sensory perception. This may facilitate the occurrence of complicated GERD and decreased quality of life. However, the interplay between sleep problems and GERD is complex, and there are still relatively limited data on this issue. Further investigation of sleep-related GERD may identify common pathophysiological themes and new therapeutic targets.
