Coughing is a common symptom, but if it persists, it could be a sign of a more serious health problem. One cause of coughing that is often overlooked is GERD (Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease), a condition that occurs when stomach acid flows back into the esophagus.
Many people don't realize that their cough could be related to GERD. This article will discuss GERD cough, its symptoms, and steps you can take to overcome it.
Getting to Know What GERD Is
GERD is a medical condition in which stomach acid that should be in the stomach, instead rises into the esophagus. This occurs due to weakness of the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) muscle, which should prevent stomach acid from rising.
When stomach acid rises, it can irritate the esophagus and even cause various other symptoms, including coughing. Coughing caused by GERD is often overlooked because it is considered a common respiratory problem. Therefore, this cough can be a sign of a more serious health problem.
Symptoms of Cough Due to GERD
One of the most common symptoms of GERD is coughing. Coughing due to GERD can occur without any pain or burning in the chest. Therefore, many people do not realize that their cough is caused by acid reflux. Here are some symptoms of GERD cough that you need to be aware of:
- Cough That Won't Go Away
One of the symptoms of a cough due to GERD is a cough that doesn't go away, even though you've taken cough medicine. This cough usually occurs at night or when you're lying down, because your body position can cause stomach acid to rise into your esophagus. - Heartburn
A burning sensation in the chest after eating or when lying down is a common symptom of GERD. Although not always accompanied by a cough, heartburn often occurs along with a cough caused by acid reflux. - Hoarse Voice and Itchy Throat
Stomach acid that rises into the throat can irritate the vocal cords, making your voice hoarse. You may also feel like your throat is itchy or irritated, which can trigger a cough. - Difficulty Swallowing
GERD can make it difficult to swallow food or drink. Acid reflux can make you feel like you have a lump in your throat, which can also make your cough worse.
Why is cough due to GERD a concern?
Many people consider GERD cough to be a minor problem that will go away on its own. However, this persistent cough can actually be a sign of a more serious problem.
If not treated properly, prolonged acid reflux can cause complications, such as damage to the throat, stomach bleeding (marked by vomiting / bloody stools), inflammation of the vocal cords, or even lung disease. Therefore, it is important not to underestimate the cough caused by GERD.
How to Treat Cough Due to GERD
If you have a cough caused by GERD, there are several steps you can take to manage the symptoms:
1. Treatment with Acid Inhibitor Drugs
One way to reduce GERD symptoms is to take acid-blocking medications, such as proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) or H2 blockers, which reduce stomach acid production and reduce coughing.
2. Changes in Diet
Reducing your intake of foods that can trigger GERD, such as spicy, acidic, and fatty foods, can help relieve cough symptoms. In addition, eating small meals and avoiding eating too close to bedtime can help reduce the risk of acid reflux. Avoid lying down after eating.
3. Sleep with your head elevated
Sleeping with your head elevated above your body can help prevent stomach acid from rising into your esophagus. You can use extra pillows to keep your body in a comfortable position and reduce the chances of acid reflux.
4. Maintain Ideal Body Weight
Being overweight can put extra pressure on your stomach, making it easier for stomach acid to rise into your esophagus. Maintaining a healthy weight can help reduce your risk of acid reflux and coughing caused by GERD.
Consult a Doctor Immediately If Cough Symptoms Do Not Recover
If your cough doesn't go away even after taking cough medicine or other symptoms persist, consult a doctor immediately. A persistent cough could be a sign of GERD or another medical problem.
Your doctor will perform tests to determine the exact cause of your cough, which may involve procedures such as an endoscopy or esophageal pH test for a more accurate diagnosis.
Coughing due to GERD is often considered trivial, but it can be a sign of serious health problems such as acid reflux. If you experience a persistent cough, accompanied by other symptoms such as heartburn, hoarseness, or difficulty swallowing, do not delay consulting a doctor. Treating GERD from an early stage can reduce the risk of complications and speed up the healing process.
Article written by dr. Stephanie Chandra, Sp.PD (Internal Medicine Specialist, EMC Hospital, Tangerang).