Does Temperature Trigger Your Acid Reflux? Understanding Seasonal Heartburn 

I confess that I’ve never noticed how weather conditions, such as extreme heat or cold, high humidity, or sudden changes in temperature, impact my acid reflux. Did I have it more often when it was hot and humid outside? Were the bouts of reflux worse in the winter or summer? Let’s investigate whether specific weather conditions make a difference or not. 

Is There Any Science Behind Seasonal Shifts in Heartburn?

There is a definite lack of research into this topic, which doesn’t necessarily mean there’s no science behind the belief that certain seasons or shifting weather worsens heartburn. However, it also doesn’t provide any solid evidence that it does. 

In 2009, a study examined the relationship between humidity and GERD among residents of Taiwan, a country known for hot and humid weather year-round. While some trends were found, this study's applicability to other parts of the globe is limited, and no other researchers have replicated it in different countries. Another study in Korea correlated the use of medical services for GERD and reflux symptoms with air pollutant levels and some weather data. However, although seasonal trends were noted, the study focused more on the air quality and whether that impacted the numbers of people visiting the hospital or their doctor for reflux care—not on the weather per se. A 2019 examination of heartburn-related Google searches over four years found that searches increased during the summer months in some countries, including the UK, Germany, Poland, and Canada. However, there was no significant seasonal trend in the US and Australia. While interesting, none of these studies yielded convincing evidence of weather-induced heartburn.

What Might Explain Seasonal Patterns in Acid Reflux Frequency and Severity?

For years, people have attributed bodily sensations, illnesses, and other physical conditions to the weather. Now, while I can’t speak to Grandma’s arthritis and impending rain but, for heartburn, weather can only be considered an indirect trigger. It doesn’t cause reflux on its own, but it impacts other known triggers—namely, our eating and drinking behaviors. In other words, weather can create conditions that make us more likely to consume foods and drinks that trigger heartburn. 

Summer and Acid Reflux: What to Watch For

In the summer, when we may be outside having backyard cookouts and beachside picnics, socializing more frequently, or eating meals later because it stays light for longer (at least in some places), there’s a chance that what we are consuming may be triggering heartburn. These foods and drinks might include things like:

• carbonated beverages
• more water than usual
• lemonade
• fresh tomatoes or tomato-based foods
• spicy foods like salsa and hot sauces
• “walking around” iced coffee drinks
•  alcohol
• fatty meats

Winter and Acid Reflux: Potential Triggers

And in the winter or when temps are cooler, we may end up doing the following:

• eating bigger, heavier, “comfort food” meals
• being more sedentary in general
• going to bed sooner after dinner
• indulging in more treats during the holiday season 
• gaining weight

When to Seek Professional Help for Acid Reflux

All of these seasonal eating characteristics can increase the likelihood of acid reflux. If your heartburn seems to know no season and you experience it all year and frequently, it’s essential to see your physician or a gastroenterologist for a proper diagnosis and appropriate testing. If left untreated, acid reflux can lead to more serious conditions such as esophageal damage or Barrett's esophagus. They can provide personalized advice and treatment options based on your specific condition and needs. 

Soothing Your Heartburn No Matter the Season

Remember, the season may not be the cause of your acid reflux, but you have the power to manage it. By paying attention to the specific dietary and lifestyle habits that trigger your symptoms, you can take control of your health. Modifying these behaviors is a first-line measure to help reduce reflux and diminish its severity. Typically, lifestyle changes are recommended in conjunction with other treatment options, such as medication, giving you a range of strategies to combat your symptoms. 

Practical Tips to Manage Acid Reflux Year-Round

Here are some ways to turn down the burn by altering your habits:

• Avoid common reflux triggers, such as spicy, fried, or fatty foods, citrus fruits and their juices, peppermint, and any other food you’ve found that brings on reflux.
• Cut back on caffeine and alcohol; carbonated beverages may also be problematic. 
• Eat a smaller evening meal, and finish it  2-3 hours before bed. 
• After eating, sit up straight instead of reclining or slouching on the couch. Consider using a wedge pillow or elevating the head of your bed when sleeping.
• Stop smoking (if applicable), and aim to lose some weight if advised by your doctor.

Final Thoughts on Weather and Acid Reflux

While weather alone may not directly cause acid reflux, it can influence lifestyle habits that trigger symptoms. By understanding the seasonal patterns and adjusting your diet and daily routines accordingly, you can manage your acid reflux more effectively. Remember, if your symptoms persist year-round, seek professional advice to ensure proper diagnosis and treatment. Stay proactive, and you can enjoy every season without the discomfort of heartburn.

1. _{Chen, K. Y., Lou, H. Y., Lin, H. C., & Lee, S. H. (2009). Seasonal variation in the incidence of gastroesophageal reflux disease. The American journal of the medical sciences, 338(6), 453–458.}
2. _{Kamiński, M., Łoniewski, I., Misera, A., Marlicz, W. (2019). Heartburn-related internet searches and trends of interest across six western countries: A four-year retrospective analysis using Google ads keyword planner. International journal of environmental research and public health, 16(23), 4591-4591.}
3. _{National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Disease (2020, July). Diagnosis of GER and GERD. National Institutes of Health. Retrieved June 16, 2024.}
4. _{Seo, H. S., Hong, J., & Jung, J. (2020). Relationship of meteorological factors and air pollutants with medical care utilization for gastroesophageal reflux disease in urban areas. World journal of gastroenterology, 26(39), 6074–6086.}