Is there a link between asthma and acid reflux?

Answer From James T C Li, M.D., Ph.D.

Asthma and acid reflux often happen together. Acid reflux is the backflow of stomach contents into the esophagus. Acid reflux can trigger asthma attacks, and asthma symptoms may make acid reflux worse.

Gastroesophageal reflux disease, also called GERD, is frequent acid reflux that can damage the esophagus. GERD is commonly diagnosed among people with asthma.

Because of these links, treating GERD may help with asthma management. Lifestyle changes may improve GERD symptoms. These include managing weight and avoiding triggers, such as fatty foods, alcohol and caffeine. Over-the-counter antacid medicines also may improve acid reflux symptoms.

Medicines called proton pump inhibitors, also called PPIs, are available in over-the-counter and prescription doses to treat GERD. Treatment with PPIs may improve asthma management among people who also have GERD. Over-the-counter proton pump inhibitors include lansoprazole (Prevacid 24 HR), omeprazole (Prilosec OTC) and esomeprazole (Nexium 24HR).

Talk to your healthcare professional before adding a PPI to your care plan. You may need to see a specialist about your acid reflux symptoms. Your care professional and you will likely review all medicines you take.

Some asthma medicines, particularly theophylline, may contribute to acid reflux. But theophylline (Theo-24, Elixophyllin) isn't used often. Don't make any changes to your asthma care plan without talking to your healthcare professional.

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March 13, 2025 See more Expert Answers

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  3. Allergy shots
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  8. Asthma diet
  9. Asthma inhalers: Which one's right for you?
  10. Asthma: Colds and flu
  11. Asthma medications
  12. Asthma: Testing and diagnosis
  13. Asthma treatment: 3 steps
  14. Cervical cerclage
  15. Churg-Strauss syndrome
  16. COVID-19: Who's at higher risk of serious symptoms?
  17. CT scan
  18. Exercise and chronic disease
  19. Exercise-induced asthma
  20. Intermittent fasting
  21. Laser eye surgery
  22. Methacholine challenge test
  23. Nitric oxide test for asthma
  24. Occupational asthma
  25. Ozone air purifiers
  26. Prednisone risks, benefits
  27. Prednisone withdrawal: Why taper down slowly?
  28. Shortness of breath
  29. Spirometry
  30. Symptom Checker
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  32. Dry powder disk inhaler
  33. Dry powder tube inhaler
  34. Video: How to use a peak flow meter
  35. Single-dose dry powder inhaler
  36. Using a metered dose asthma inhaler and spacer
  37. Vocal cord dysfunction
  38. What is aspirin-exacerbated respiratory disease (AERD)?
  39. Wheezing
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