There isn’t a lot of research that points to cannabis as a GERD or acid reflux cause. Doctors have connected increased levels of inflammation with greater risks for GERD as well as Barrett’s esophagus, a condition that can lead to esophageal cancer. Smoking can increase levels of inflammation in the body.Bicarbonate is an acid-neutralizing compound. Smoking tobacco reduces the amount of bicarbonate present in the saliva.When the LES pressure is reduced, the acid can more easily creep up and cause heartburn.
The LES is the protective closure that keeps acid in the stomach and out of your esophagus. Here’s a rundown of some of the major types and their potential effects on acid reflux.ĭoctors have proposed a few potential reasons why people who smoke report a higher incidence of heartburn or acid reflux. Can smoking cause heartburn, or acid reflux?įrom tobacco to cannabis, there are a lot of ways and substances that people smoke.