October 10, 2008, Newsletter Issue #192: Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) Prevents Sleep
Tip of the Week
Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD), or heartburn, is extremely common. Surveys say 44 percent of Americans experience heartburn once a month and 5 percent report getting it several days a week. Furthermore, 65 percent report getting heartburn both day and night and say it worsens at night and keeps them from sleeping.
Of heartburn sufferers, a large majority experiences it at night. No wonder it interferes with our ability to go to sleep. Research shows the acid contact with the esophagus at night can prevent or delay the onset of sleep. And if the sufferer does get to sleep, chances are it will wake him back up before morning.
GERD can be treated with both simple lifestyle changes and medication.
Lifestyle changes include avoiding certain foods, such as tomato products, grapefruit, and high fat foods in general. Maintaining a regular meal schedule - eating meals at the same time each day - helps as well. Sleeping with the head of the bed slightly elevated can help too.
There are also a variety of over-the-counter medications, such as antacids, that people can try to fight GERD.
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