Laryngopharyngeal Reflux and Obstructive Sleep Apnea Syndrome

Abstract

Gastroesophageal Reflux (GERD) and Laryngopharyngeal Reflux (LPRD) may be associated with night time reflux, snoring and sleep apnea; however, uncertainty remains whether reflux episodes are related to apneic episodes. The argument that the coincidental correlation of the severity of reflux-induced symptoms with the severity of obstructive sleep apnea is evidence against precipitation of apneic episodes by reflux episodes is unconvincing.
While CPAP treatment improves the symptoms of GERD and LPRD, and treating GERD improves sleep disturbance, it is uncertain whether these treatments improve sleep apnea. It is necessary to consider additional treatments of GERD such as Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPI).