5. Acid Reflux: An Unexpected but Troubling Side Effect
Let’s address a side effect that often gets less attention: acid reflux. At first glance, it may seem odd to link a digestive issue with a breathing problem, but the connection exists and is worth understanding. Contrary to popular belief, this isn’t about that occasional heartburn after a spicy meal. We’re talking about a recurrent issue that can wreak havoc on your digestive system.
When the breathing passages close up during sleep apnea episodes, the diaphragm goes into overdrive to try and open them. This sudden, intense effort creates pressure changes in the chest cavity, which can affect the esophagus. These pressure changes can cause the lower esophageal sphincter to malfunction, allowing stomach acid to flow back into the esophagus. And voila, you have acid reflux.
While the occasional reflux episode might be tolerable, consistent exposure to stomach acid can damage the esophageal lining, leading to symptoms like heartburn, regurgitation, and even difficulty swallowing. The unnerving part? Many don’t even realize that their sleep apnea could be the villain behind their digestive woes. (5)
