How do doctors determine that a cough is due to acid reflux disease (GERD), as opposed to a different cause?

Doctor's Answers 1

Photo of Dr Wai Leong Quan
Dr Wai Leong Quan

Gastroenterologist

Cough is a body protective mechanism in response to agents which are irritating to the airway. As such, any fumes, dust, food or fluid that accidentally enter the airway may trigger a coughing fit.

In acid reflux related cough, the most helpful clue is a feeling of stomach content flowing back into the oesophagus, otherwise known as regurgitation. Frequently, there is an associated burning sensation behind the chest bone due to the acidic stomach content. Such symptoms will make a good argument for acid reflux related cough provided there is no other better explanation for the cough such as asthma or some form of nose or airway sensitivity.

At times, a trial of acid suppression therapy for a few weeks may help to clinch the diagnosis. Special investigations such as endscopical examination of the upper airway and pH study of the upper oesophagus may be required for more complicated cases. Do consider other possibilities when treatment for reflux related cough is not working. You will probably benefit from further tests and advice from your doctor if your cough persist.

- Dr Quan

Similar Questions

Could I have throat cancer if I have a persistent sensation in throat?

Thank you for your question. From the clinical history that you provided, I agree with the doctor whom you saw and with Dr Winston Lee that your symptoms are suggestive of acid reflux from the stomach. Specifically, since your symptoms are mostly in the throat, it is called Laryngopharyngeal Reflux (LPR). The most likely reason that you have a feeling of something stuck in the throat or a feeling of a “lump” in the throat (aka as globus sensation) is due to swelling of the voicebox (larynx).

Photo of Dr Eng Cern Gan

Answered By

Dr Eng Cern Gan

ENT Doctor

What could be the cause of chronic cough at night and in early morning? How can I stop the cough?

Thank you for your question. I’m sorry to hear that your mother is suffering from a prolonged and problematic cough which can be a complex condition. Coughing is a reflex that protects your upper airway and lungs from irritants such as excessive mucous and foreign bodies. When persistent, it is often a symptom of a condition, ranging from conditions arising from the nose & sinuses (e. g sensitive nose, sinus infections), lungs (e. g asthma and bronchitis), throat and stomach (e. g. acid reflux from the stomach) to side effects from medications or smoking.

Photo of Dr Eng Cern Gan

Answered By

Dr Eng Cern Gan

ENT Doctor

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