Symptoms of Gerd Cough

In GERD, the lower esophageal sphincter, or LES, between the stomach and the esophagus does not open and close properly. Consequently, acidic gastric fluids can re-enter the esophagus, especially when you bend at the waist or lie down, or during vigorous activity like running and jumping. Certain health conditions and lifestyle habits can exacerbate GERD. Obesity, excessive alcohol consumption and smoking are associated with GERD. Pregnancy can make GERD worse. However, in many patients, no predisposing factor can be identified.

The most obvious symptom of GERD is frequent heartburn caused by acid reflux. However, a significant percentage of patients eventually diagnosed with GERD report no heartburn pain. These patients are said to have "silent GERD." In silent GERD, other more vague complaints are the first indicators of GERD. GERD cough is one of these.

GERD cough is caused by chronic irritation of the throat, larynx and epiglottis. It usually begins as a dry non-productive cough. However, if gastric fluids enter the trachea and bronchial tubes, bronchitis or pneumonia can result. GERD is also implicated in the development of asthma--a Duke University study found that 50 to 90 percent of asthma sufferers also have GERD. Other symptoms of silent GERD are sore throat, bad breath, tooth erosion and ear infections. GERD cough is also very frequently accompanied by the feeling of a lump or fullness in the throat, called "globus."

You should see your doctor any time you have a chronic cough. If your doctor suspects your cough is caused by GERD, diagnostic tests like a barium swallow test and X-rays may be performed to evaluate the function of your LES. You may also be advised to modify your diet to eliminate irritating foods, and to reduce meal size. Alcohol consumption and smoking should also be curtailed. If obesity is a factor, losing weight can improve GERD symptoms dramatically. Usually, medications will also be prescribed in addition to recommended lifestyle changes.

Many GERD sufferers attempt to self-treat their symptoms with over-the-counter antacids, but this is not a sufficient remedy for GERD. Antacids do not adequately address possible excess acid production, nor do they correct the LES dysfunction. Also, frequent use of antacids can cause a condition called "acid rebound" in which your stomach begins to produce more acid. Instead, your doctor will recommend acid blocker medications that reduce acid production at the source. Your doctor will also track the effectiveness of your treatment to determine if more aggressive therapy like surgery is needed to correct defects of the LES and surrounding structures.

Under no circumstances should you ignore symptoms like GERD cough, frequent sore throat or heartburn. Left untreated, GERD can cause erosions and ulcers of the esophagus. Acid reflux can also permanently damage your teeth. Eventually, untreated GERD can cause the lining of the esophagus to develop a precancerous condition called Barrett's Esophagus, and eventually cancer of the esophagus may result. Also, though some acid blockers are available over the counter, you should not try to self-diagnose and treat GERD, since chronic cough can be caused by other serious health conditions. Always see your doctor for chronic cough or other possible GERD symptoms.