Heartburn at night or waking up with a burning sensation in the morning is a common issue for many people. Just when you’re trying to get some rest, acid reflux can sneak in, making it hard to sleep and ruining your mornings. If this happens frequently, it’s not just a matter of bad luck; your body is signalling that something is off. So, why does acid reflux tend to be worse at night, and what can you do to prevent it from disrupting your sleep?
Why Acid Reflux is Worse at Night
During the day, gravity and being upright help keep stomach acid where it should be. However, when you lie down at night, it’s easier for acid to escape from your stomach into your esophagus, resulting in that uncomfortable burning sensation known as heartburn. Additionally, your body produces less saliva while you sleep, which means there’s less natural neutralisation of acid compared to when you’re awake.
The Hidden Cause: Weak or Dysfunctional Lower Esophageal Sphincter (LES)
The lower esophageal sphincter (LES) is a muscle ring that serves as a valve between your stomach and esophagus. When it works properly, it stops stomach acid from flowing back up. However, if the LES is weakened or relaxes when it shouldn’t, acid can escape, leading to reflux symptoms.
Common causes of LES dysfunction include:
- Obesity – Extra weight can put pressure on your stomach, causing acid to escape.
- Diet Choices – Spicy, fatty, or acidic foods, along with caffeine and alcohol, can weaken the LES.
- Late-Night Eating – Eating too close to bedtime means your stomach is still digesting when you lie down.
- Hiatal Hernia – A condition where part of the stomach pushes through the diaphragm, weakening the LES.
- Certain Medications – Some medications, like muscle relaxants or blood pressure drugs, can contribute to reflux.
Symptoms of Night-Time Acid Reflux
While heartburn is the most recognised symptom, night-time acid reflux can manifest in various other ways:
- Chronic coughing or frequent throat clearing
- Hoarseness or a sore throat upon waking
- A bitter or sour taste lingering in the mouth
- Interrupted sleep due to discomfort or choking sensations
- Chest pain that may be confused with heart issues
How to Reduce Night-Time Acid Reflux
If acid reflux is disrupting your sleep, implementing a few lifestyle changes might help:
1. Adjust Your Sleeping Position
- Elevate the head of your bed by 6-8 inches to stop acid from rising.
- Sleep on your left side to help keep stomach contents down.
2. Modify Your Eating Habits
- Refrain from eating 2-3 hours before going to bed.
- Opt for smaller, more frequent meals rather than large ones.
- Identify and steer clear of trigger foods such as spicy dishes, citrus fruits, and alcohol.
3. Maintain a Healthy Weight
- Excess weight can increase pressure on the abdomen, so losing even a small amount can help alleviate reflux.
4. Choose the Right Medication
- Over-the-counter antacids can offer quick relief.
- Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) and H2 blockers might be suggested for ongoing reflux.
When to Seek Professional Treatment
If lifestyle adjustments and over-the-counter remedies aren’t sufficient, it may be time to consult a professional. Chronic acid reflux can lead to complications like esophagitis, ulcers, or even Barrett’s oesophagus, which raises the risk of oesophagal cancer.
At the Clinic for Digestive Surgery, we specialise in diagnosing and treating acid reflux with personalised solutions aimed at addressing the underlying causes of your symptoms. From medication management to minimally invasive procedures, we provide treatment options to help you sleep better and live more comfortably.
Take Control of Your Nights
Don’t let acid reflux rob you of a good night’s sleep. If you’re constantly waking up due to discomfort, it’s time to take action. Book a consultation with us today and get personalised treatment to put your night-time acid reflux to rest.
