The effect of smoking on acid reflux

The effect of smoking on acid reflux

The lower esophageal sphincter is a muscle that keeps acid produced in the stomach from entering the esophagus. Anything that relaxes this muscle (cigarettes, alcohol, foods, or medications) causes the esophagus to be exposed to acid.
Some studies have shown a link between smoking and acid reflux. Even though smoking does not directly cause acid reflux, it can exacerbate acid reflux symptoms.
The nicotine in cigarette smoke can reduce the ability of the lower esophageal sphincter to contract or close, allowing acid to reflux. Studies have shown that smoking increases irritation of the esophagus when acid refluxes and increases symptoms of heartburn. Aside from discomfort caused by reflux, the greatest complication of acid reflux is the development of cancer, and smoking greatly increases esophageal cancer risk.
Cigarette smoke, particularly nicotine, can dry out the mouth, which decreases saliva production. Normally we swallow saliva constantly, and this aids digestion of food and lubricates the esophagus. Saliva neutralizes acid and is protective when stomach acid refluxes into esophagus by helping to clear it.
Some people are in the habit of reaching for a cigarette right after a meal, which can exacerbate problems. After eating, the stomach produces acid for digestion. Following smoking, nicotine and cigarette smoke enter the bloodstream and impair contraction of the lower esophageal sphincter. The relaxed lower esophageal sphincter and a plentiful supply of acid are setup for acid reflux to occur. So, in this way, even though smoking may not directly cause acid reflux, it can make acid reflux worse.
Smoking is also a bad habit associated with many health problems. Smoking is a cause of many cancers,heart disease, vascular disease, stomach ulcers, and lung disease, to name a few.