Acid Reflux: Symptoms, Snoring, and When to Seek Help

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)

Hello! My father has been experiencing symptoms that suggest gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and has been snoring for some time.
During sleep, he suddenly chokes and has difficulty breathing, and at times his face turns pale and his lips become purple.
Can you help identify what might be going on? Which specialist should he see? Is snoring considered an abnormal phenomenon?

Xiao Xuan, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2009/07/28

Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Hello,
1.
Snoring is sometimes associated with obstructive sleep apnea syndrome.
It is recommended to consult an otolaryngologist for snoring issues.
Snoring can sometimes be improved by weight loss and changing sleeping positions, while in some cases, it may require reconstructive procedures to address the sites of upper airway obstruction to ensure airway patency.
2.
If there are symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux, it is advisable to pay attention to dietary habits, avoid eating large or greasy meals before bedtime, elevate the head of the bed, and maintain a normal body weight.
3.
Some hospitals have "sleep clinics" where instruments can be used to determine if there are any occurrences of sleep apnea.
Wishing you good health,
Dr.
Lin Ming-Hui, Taoyuan Hospital, Department of Health

Reply Date: 2009/07/28

More Info

Acid reflux, also known as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), is a condition where stomach acid flows back into the esophagus, leading to various symptoms. Your father's symptoms, including snoring, choking, and difficulty breathing during sleep, are concerning and warrant further evaluation.

Symptoms of Acid Reflux
Common symptoms of acid reflux include:
- Heartburn: A burning sensation in the chest, often after eating or at night.

- Regurgitation: A sour or bitter taste in the mouth due to stomach acid backing up into the throat.

- Dysphagia: Difficulty swallowing, which can occur if the esophagus is inflamed.

- Chronic cough or throat clearing: This can happen if acid irritates the throat.

- Hoarseness or sore throat: Resulting from acid exposure to the vocal cords.

In your father's case, the choking episodes and difficulty breathing during sleep could indicate a more severe form of acid reflux or even a condition known as obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). OSA is characterized by repeated interruptions in breathing during sleep, often accompanied by loud snoring and gasping or choking sensations.

Snoring and Its Implications
Snoring itself is not always abnormal; however, it can be a sign of underlying health issues, especially when associated with choking or breathing difficulties. In many cases, snoring can be linked to:
- Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA): This condition occurs when the muscles in the throat relax excessively during sleep, leading to blocked airways. Symptoms include loud snoring, gasping for air during sleep, and excessive daytime sleepiness.

- Nasal congestion: Allergies or sinus issues can contribute to snoring.

- Obesity: Extra weight can put pressure on the airways, leading to snoring.

When to Seek Help
Given your father's symptoms of choking, difficulty breathing, and changes in skin color (pale face and bluish lips), it is crucial to seek medical attention promptly. These symptoms can indicate a serious condition requiring immediate evaluation.
1. Primary Care Physician: Start by consulting a primary care physician who can assess his symptoms and determine if a referral to a specialist is necessary.

2. Gastroenterologist: If acid reflux is suspected, a gastroenterologist can perform tests such as an upper endoscopy or pH monitoring to evaluate the severity of the reflux.

3. Sleep Specialist: If sleep apnea is suspected, a sleep study may be recommended to monitor his breathing patterns during sleep.

Conclusion
In summary, your father's symptoms of suspected acid reflux, snoring, and episodes of choking during sleep are concerning and should not be ignored. It is essential to seek medical evaluation to determine the underlying cause and appropriate treatment. Early intervention can help manage symptoms effectively and improve his quality of life. Additionally, lifestyle changes such as dietary modifications, weight management, and avoiding lying down immediately after meals can also help alleviate acid reflux symptoms.

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