Duke University Medical Center researchers have discovered a link between gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and asthma. Apparently, between 50 and 90 percent of asthma sufferers also suffer from GERD, but the link between the two has not been known. The study, published in the European Journal of Clinical Investigation, determined that inhaling small amounts of backed up stomach fluid in the esophagus (a major GERD symptom) can cause immune system changes, which later lead to asthma.
More research is needed to completely understand the relationship between asthma and GERD, but these early findings are paving the way for additional studies.
For those living with GERD, eating smaller meals several hours before bed, and limiting consumption of alcohol, fatty foods, and caffeine can reduce the risk of developing asthma.
