Can High or Low Altitude Cause Acid Reflux?

Photo by Clark Wilson on Unsplash

Living at 9,000 feet has its rewards—amazing views, fresh mountain air, and a peaceful environment. While I never associated high altitude with anything except less oxygen, it got me wondering whether it was contributing to my acid reflux problems.

If you’ve ever wondered whether the altitude around you is affecting your digestion, you’re not alone. I was surprised to learn that different altitudes can impact acid reflux.

In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at how both high and low altitudes can influence acid reflux symptoms and what you can do to feel your best, no matter where you are.

High Altitude and Acid Reflux

At higher altitudes, such as when you're in mountainous regions or traveling in airplanes, the body faces lower atmospheric pressure. This can affect your digestion and potentially lead to an increase in acid reflux symptoms. Here's why:

Lower Air Pressure and Gas Expulsion

At high altitudes, the lower air pressure can make it harder for your body to expel gases efficiently. This can cause bloating, which, in turn, puts additional pressure on your stomach, increasing the likelihood of acid reflux.

Dehydration

The air at high altitudes is often drier, and dehydration is more common in such environments. Dehydration can worsen acid reflux symptoms by reducing the production of saliva, which naturally helps neutralize stomach acid.

Changes in Diet

When you're traveling to higher altitudes, your diet may change as well, often with richer, heavier foods. These foods can trigger acid reflux in those already prone to the condition.

Stress and Physical Activity

High-altitude environments can also induce physical stress on the body, such as shortness of breath, fatigue, and increased heart rate. This can negatively impact digestion and exacerbate reflux symptoms.

Low Altitude and Acid Reflux

Though high altitudes may be more commonly associated with acid reflux issues, low altitudes can also play a role, though the causes are slightly different. Here are some ways lower altitudes might affect your acid reflux:

Increased Atmospheric Pressure

At low altitudes, where the pressure is higher, your body may experience more pressure on the stomach. This added pressure can push stomach acid upwards into the esophagus, triggering reflux symptoms.

Dietary and Lifestyle Factors

Living at lower altitudes often means more access to rich, fatty foods and other triggers of acid reflux. This can contribute to an increase in symptoms, particularly if lifestyle factors like overeating or lying down shortly after eating are also at play.

Air Quality

Low-altitude areas may have higher pollution levels, and poor air quality can irritate the throat and esophagus. This could potentially make symptoms of acid reflux worse.

How to Manage Acid Reflux at Any Altitude

Whether you're traveling to higher or lower altitudes, there are ways to manage and reduce the effects of acid reflux:

• Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water, especially at higher altitudes, to stay hydrated and promote better digestion.
  

• Monitor Your Diet: Avoid trigger foods that can worsen acid reflux, such as spicy foods, citrus, chocolate, and caffeine. Choose lighter meals that are easier on your stomach.
  

• Elevate Your Head While Sleeping: If you're experiencing reflux symptoms at night, try elevating your head to help prevent stomach acid from rising.
  

• Take It Easy: Be mindful of physical activity, especially at higher altitudes. Avoid heavy meals or lying down immediately after eating.
  

• Consult a Healthcare Professional: If you frequently experience acid reflux symptoms, speak with your doctor to explore treatment options to help you manage the condition, no matter where you are.
  

Conclusion

Whether heading to the mountains or living at sea level, altitude can influence acid reflux symptoms. By understanding the connection and taking preventive measures, you can help minimize the impact of altitude on your digestive health. Stay hydrated, watch your diet, and listen to your body as you adjust to new environments.