GERD Home > Smoking and GERD
People who smoke are more likely to cough, which puts pressure on the lower esophageal sphincter. In addition, cigarettes have been shown to weaken the lower esophageal sphincter. Both of these effects on the sphincter can cause it to open more often and can increase acid reflux.
Tobacco products also:
- Cause your body to make less saliva, which you need to help neutralize the stomach juices in your esophagus
- Cause your body to make more stomach juices.
As you can see, using tobacco products can make it more likely for you to develop GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease). If you already have GERD, smoking can make your symptoms worse.