To Determine if Sleep Deprivation Results in Increased Esophageal Acid Exposure

To Determine if Sleep Deprivation Results in Increased Esophageal Acid Exposure, and if This Effect is Mediated in Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)Patients by Altering Appetite Regulation

The purpose of this study is to determine if sleep deprivation results in increased esophageal acid exposure in healthy controls and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) patients.

To determine if increased esophageal acid exposure is mediated by altering appetite regulation. To assess if there is any relationship between sleep deprivation and the serum level of TNF-alfa (a protein that can be elevated in inflammation).

Inclusion Criteria:

• Male/Female - 18-80
• 2 or more episodes of heartburn a week for last 3 months

Exclusion Criteria:

• Previous upper GI surgery
• Underlying co-morbidity
• Narcotic medications
• Psychotropic's and Benzodiazapines medications
• Hx of psychological abnormalities
• Hx of ETOH in previous 6 mos.
• Diabetes Mellitus
• Neuropathy
• Seizures
• Sleep Apnea
• Co-morbidity that interfere w/sleep
• Women who are pregnant, or childbearing yrs, not on BC