The Link Between Heartburn and Asthma

If you have asthma, you're more likely to get heartburn. And if you have frequent heartburn, it can trigger asthma symptoms or make them worse. Learning how these conditions are connected can help you manage them and feel your best.

You get heartburn, also called acid reflux, when stomach acid enters your esophagus (the tube connecting your stomach and throat). This can irritate and narrow your airways, triggering asthma symptoms. Stomach acid can also enter your lungs and cause coughing and wheezing.

Some asthma medications may raise your chances of getting heartburn because of how they affect different muscles in your body. For example, albuterol and prednisone can relax the muscles that control the opening between your esophagus and your stomach, allowing acid to leak in.

Heartburn is normal occasionally, but if it's long term, it could be a sign of GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease). GERD may be the culprit behind your asthma if your asthma symptoms start when you're an adult, asthma treatments don't work well for you, or if you often cough or have a hoarse voice. Endoscopy or swallow tests with X-rays can help doctors tell if you have GERD.

If you have GERD, focus on getting it under control. Once your acid reflux goes down, your asthma symptoms will likely improve. Over-the-counter medications, prescription drugs, and lifestyle changes like elevating the head of your bed and avoiding meals before bedtime can all help manage GERD.