How an Adjustable Bed Can Help Relieve Acid Reflux: A Comprehensive Guide

Feeling heartburn? If you often feel heartburn or other common acid reflux symptoms when you lie down to sleep, you're not alone. It's not uncommon for acid reflux symptoms to strike just as you're getting ready for bed.

Fortunately, simply adjusting your sleep patterns can help reduce and alleviate symptoms.

What is Acid Reflux?

Acid reflux, or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), is a common condition where stomach acid moves up into the esophagus, leading to discomfort, heartburn, and other symptoms. One of the most effective lifestyle changes to manage this condition is sleeping with proper support. An adjustable bed, which allows users to change the position of the head and foot sections, can be a game-changer for those suffering from acid reflux. In this article, we'll explore how an adjustable bed can help relieve acid reflux and improve your overall quality of sleep.

What Causes Acid Reflux? 

Acid Reflux occurs when stomach acid or bile irritates the food pipe lining (esophagus). This happens when the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), a ring of muscle at the end of the esophagus, relaxes at the wrong time, allowing stomach contents to flow back up into the esophagus.

Causes of Acid Reflux:

1. Weak Lower Esophageal Sphincter (LES):

   • The LES is responsible for preventing stomach acid from flowing back into the esophagus. If it weakens or relaxes improperly, acid can escape into the esophagus, leading to reflux.

2. Hiatal Hernia:

   • A condition where the upper part of the stomach pushes through the diaphragm into the chest cavity, making it easier for acid to flow back up into the esophagus.

3. Obesity:

   • Excess weight can put pressure on the stomach, leading to an increased risk of acid reflux.

4. Pregnancy:

   • Hormonal changes and pressure on the stomach from the growing fetus can cause acid reflux in pregnant women.

5. Dietary Factors:

   • Certain foods and drinks can trigger acid reflux, including:
     • Spicy foods
     • Fatty or fried foods
     • Citrus fruits
     • Chocolate
     • Caffeine
     • Alcohol
     • Garlic and onions

6. Smoking:

   • Smoking can weaken the LES and reduce saliva production, both of which increase the risk of acid reflux.

7. Medications:

   • Some medications, like certain pain relievers, blood pressure medications, and sedatives, can relax the LES or irritate the esophagus, contributing to acid reflux.

8. Delayed Stomach Emptying:

   • Conditions like gastroparesis, where the stomach empties slowly, can increase the likelihood of acid reflux.

9. Stress:

   • Although stress doesn’t directly cause acid reflux, it can exacerbate symptoms and may contribute to unhealthy eating habits that increase the likelihood of reflux.

Acid reflux and GERD (Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease) can significantly impact sleep quality due to the discomfort and symptoms they cause. Here's how they can interfere with sleep:

Impact of Acid Reflux and GERD on Sleep:

1. Discomfort and Pain:

   • Acid reflux often causes a burning sensation in the chest (heartburn), which can become worse when lying down. This discomfort can make it difficult to fall asleep or stay asleep throughout the night.
   • GERD, which is a more severe and chronic form of acid reflux, can cause frequent episodes of heartburn, regurgitation of stomach acid, and chest pain, all of which can wake you up during the night.

2. Worsening Symptoms When Lying Down:

   • When you lie flat, gravity is no longer helping to keep stomach acid where it belongs—in the stomach. As a result, acid is more likely to flow back into the esophagus, causing symptoms like heartburn and regurgitation. This can interrupt your sleep cycle and result in frequent waking.

3. Disrupted Sleep Patterns:

   • The discomfort and pain from acid reflux or GERD may cause you to wake up several times throughout the night. This can lead to fragmented sleep, leaving you feeling tired and unrested the next day.

4. Increased Risk of Sleep Apnea:

   • GERD is associated with a higher risk of developing obstructive sleep apnea. The backflow of acid can irritate the airways and cause inflammation, potentially leading to airway obstruction during sleep. This can result in snoring, gasping, and even episodes of stopped breathing.

5. Nighttime Asthma Symptoms:

   • Acid reflux can worsen asthma symptoms, particularly at night. Stomach acid can irritate the airways and lead to wheezing, coughing, and shortness of breath, which can significantly disrupt sleep.

6. Poor Sleep Quality and Daytime Fatigue:

   • The combination of frequent awakenings, discomfort, and poor quality sleep can lead to daytime fatigue, mood changes, and difficulty concentrating, all of which negatively affect daily functioning.

Management and Tips for Better Sleep:

To help reduce the impact of acid reflux and GERD on sleep, here are a few tips:

1. Elevate the Head of Your Bed:

   • Raising the head of the bed by 6 to 8 inches can help prevent acid from flowing back into the esophagus while you sleep.

2. Avoid Large Meals Before Bed:

   • Try not to eat large meals or heavy, spicy foods at least 2-3 hours before sleeping to reduce the likelihood of acid reflux.

3. Sleep on Your Left Side:

   • Sleeping on your left side may reduce the chances of acid reflux, as it can help keep the stomach below the esophagus, preventing acid from flowing back up.

4. Avoid Alcohol, Caffeine, and Smoking:

   • These substances can relax the LES and increase the chances of acid reflux. Try to limit or avoid them, especially in the evening.

5. Consult a Doctor:

   • If acid reflux or GERD is severely affecting your sleep, it’s important to consult a healthcare provider who can recommend lifestyle changes or medications to help manage the condition.

How to Elevate Your Head for Acid Reflux？

Using the adjustable base, try placing yourself in an inclined position with your head 6 to 8 inches above your lower body. Many of our clients also prefer the zero-gravity position, which is a great way to reduce pressure on the back and control acid reflux or GERD.

Also: if you are a side sleeper, we recommend that you lie on your left side to help relieve heartburn.

Better Sleep with an Adjustable Bed

Ready to shop for an adjustable bed?The Eshine Adjustable Base can help you sleep better when you have acid reflux, thanks to its virtually unlimited height options. By adjusting your bed to the perfect fit, you'll be on your way to better health and sleep.