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Are Your Indigestion And Breathing Problems Related?

By: Kathryn Whittaker Most people know the symptoms of GERD before they are diagnosed, as these are what led them to go to the doctor in the first place. Upset stomach, pain from acid radiating up into the mouth and throat, and nausea are common, and these folks probably already know to eat smaller meals throughout the day, and what type of medication they should be taking. What these people may not know is that there can be other complications of which they may never think to associate with GERD. As it turns out, indigestion and breathing problems can go hand in hand, even though at first they don’t seem to be related.

Many with acid reflux know that the acid produced by the stomach can leak up into the mouth, the throat, and all the way up into the sinuses. It can however, also go into the lungs causing a lot of damage to the lungs and also to the voice box.

If reflux is not treated or under control it can result in wheezing, coughing and other breathing problems. Those who aren’t aware that they have reflux might notice the breathing problems first, and this can lead to all types of tests to see what is going on. The connection between GERD and the breathing problems is often not found right away.

Because acid is produced in the stomach, the organ handles it very well, though there are times when the lining is breached and ulcers form. Acid leaking from the stomach will also cause damage to the esophagus, but this tissue can handle a small amount for a time. This is not true for the lungs.

The lungs are very susceptible to damage from even a small amount of acid. The voice box (larynx) is the first spot where damage will occur. This is what stops food from entering the lungs, and opens to allow breathing.

One of the first signs that acid is affecting the voice box is a sore throat and a scratchy or rough voice. There will be pain in the voice box on and off. When the acid is allowed to seep into the lungs, the lungs react to try to protect themselves from the foreign substance.

The inside surface area of the lungs is covered with cilia. These are tiny hair-like structures that move the bad stuff out of the lungs, such as toxins or mucus. When these are exposed to acid, they become covered with what would be something similar to the lining of the esophagus as a form of protection. This protects the lungs more, but it does not allow the lungs to clean themselves. As a result, there can be increased mucus, are breathing problems and infections.

When damage to the lungs is not treated right away, problems can become serious. Pneumonia is a concern, and asthma symptoms can be exacerbated. The damage if not treated and the acid not stopped from entering the lungs can be permanent.

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If indigestion and breathing problems are evident, it is important to get the acid under control so that the body has time to heal and there is no further damage. Acid left unchecked can have a serious affect on many systems within the body, and the lungs are especially vulnerable. Further intervention after acid reflux treatment may be necessary. Seek medical advice if you believe you are suffering from GERD.

Article Source: http://www.lifeweightloss.com

By Kathryn Whittaker. Sign up for a free newsletter that has proven methods for tackling Acid Reflux, Heartburn and GERD head-on and discover more about indigestion and breathing.

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