Fibromyalgia is a chronic condition that is characterized by widespread musculoskeletal pain; even ordinary, everyday tasks like getting out of bed, going to work, doing the shopping or moving around at all can be very difficult. Fibromyalgia sufferers are also prone to developing other ailments, gastric reflux being one of them. And if gastric reflux and fibromyalgia strike together, it is essential that you address both conditions as early as possible.

Aside from the pain and muscle aches, fibromyalgia is also normally accompanied by sleep disturbances so achieving deep sleep can be a problem. Most fibromyalgia sufferers find they can get off to sleep okay, but staying asleep proves more challenging. The broken sleeping patterns can be made much worse if gastric reflux is present as well.

Gastric reflux is a common problem for many people now, effecting around 6% of Americans. The reflux occurs because the acids produced in the stomach for digestion purposes escape out of the stomach and splash up into the esophagus.

The reflux occurs when the Lower Esophageal Sphincter (LES), a muscle that separates the esophagus from the stomach, fails to close properly. When this happens, the acids and food from the stomach can freely move into the esophagus.

Symptoms that suggest you are suffering from gastric reflux are a burning sensation in the throat, chest pains, nausea, cough and difficulty swallowing.

So, how does gastric reflux effect fibromyalgia?

Some people believe that fibromyalgia is caused by sufferers failing to reach deep stages of sleep. On the other hand other suggest that sleep disturbance is a symptom of fibromyalgia. No matter which view you take, the lack of proper sleep can worsen any condition.

For a person suffering from fibromyalgia, they will generally find life more difficult if gastric reflux occurs. The sleep disturbances of fibromyalgia can result to a complete deprivation of sleep if gastric reflux gets in the way.

One of the main complications of gastric reflux is that it can worsen at night while we are sleeping. The reason for this is as we are lying down it is easier for the acid to leak out of the LES and into the esophagus.

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The effects of gastric reflux can be avoided in many ways. There are techniques that can be done to keep gastric reflux from disrupting your life.

It is best to consult a physician right away if you start experiencing heartburn on a regular basis. The doctor can prescribe medicine that will alleviate the effects of gastric reflux. You can also ask if there are any suitable over-the-counter medications to relieve the feeling. Be sure to tell them that you have fibromyalgia and if you are taking any medications.

You could also consider changing your sleeping position to try and keep the acids in your stomach while you're sleeping. Sleeping with your head and upper body elevated will be the most favorable position.

When it comes to diet be sensible with your food choices, avoid spicy foods and drinks that contain caffeine as these can aggravate reflux symptoms. Stay away from alcohol and try to eat smaller meals more often rather than eating big meals in one go. This will take the pressure off your digestive system as it breaks down and processes the food. It is also recommended to not eat in the 3 hours before going to bed, again to allow your digestive system to do its work before you lie down.

Alleviating the effects of gastric reflux for fibromyalgia sufferers is crucial as it can really improve your sleep, which is vital. Make sure to use the techniques provided above to keep these conditions from disrupting your life.