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Gerd And Asthma

By admin | March 28, 2009

Here is an amazing fact for you. 70% of people who develop asthma also have Gastroesophageal reflux disease or GERD. You are more then twice as likely to get Gastroesophageal reflux disease if you have asthma.

If you have chronic asthma then it is almost guaranteed that you have GERD. While it has been proven that there is a connection between GERD and Asthma, we are still unsure what the direct relationship is. GERD we know does make asthma symptoms worse, so treating GERD does usually help alleviate asthma symptoms.

This would indicate a connection between the two conditions. GERD can effect those with asthma in a few different ways. Acid reflux coming from the stomach can travel to the lungs and airways causing severe coughing and difficulty with breathing. GERD can also cause a nerve to reflex which makes the airways narrow.

This of course will cause a shortness of breathe. Asthma can also effect people with GERD. Asthma medications, including puffers have been known to trigger GERD symptoms.

There are things you can do to help prevent GERD symptoms from happening if you asthma. Stopping smoking is the best thing you can do for GERD and asthma. It’s not an easy task, but will make a huge difference to your quality of life. Sleeping on your left side also helps.

Sleeping on your left side helps with digestion and the removal of stomach acid. Avoiding foods that you know give you heart burn is also a good start. Spicy food is a no no. As is alcohol or coffee.

Make sure you visit your doctor regularly as well. Take what medications you are told to take. It’s incredibly important that you know what triggers your asthma and GERD and to avoid them.

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