Smoking And Reflux

Smoking and reflux, like most medical conditions don`t go together. It is advised if you have gastro-oesophageal reflux also known and heartburn and GERD, you should try to give up smoking or reduce the amount that you smoke.

What is gastro-oesophageal reflux?

There are several reasons why smoking can make gastro-oesophageal reflux worse

• Smoking can increase the amount of stomach acid produced.
• Saliva produced in your mouth contains acid-neutralizing chemicals, which are called bicarbonates. In smokers the saliva is usually reduced which can make reflux worse.
• Smoking can also relax and weaken the lower esophageal sphincter (LES)This can then allow stomach contents and acid back into the esophagus.
• Smoking can increase movement of bile salts from the intestine to the stomach, which makes stomach acid more harmful and can cause more damage to the esophagus.
• Smoking can directly damage the esophagus increasing the likelihood of acid damage.
• Smoking can make gastric emptying slower, which means the stomach takes longer to digest and empty.

If you would like to give up smoking we suggest you speak with a member of the medical profession for advice and support.

You could also take a look at theses links for advice and support

Welcome to giving up smoking
Dont give up giving up.

Together give up smoking for good (NHS)
Why give up smoking on your own when you can give up together.

Quitnet
Quit all together

Stop Smoking Tips and Quit Smoking Help
Stop Smoking is really a tough job. Every smoker wants to quit smoking cigarettes, but finds it difficult to stop smoking. We will teach you the most easy, effective and step by step ways to quit smoking.

Written by Tracey (Chairman)