Re: GERD=Is anyone else COUGHING??!!!!

Posted By HFHSM.D.-rf on July 08, 1998 at 23:04:26:

In Reply to: GERD=Is anyone else COUGHING??!!!! posted by denise on July 08, 1998 at 04:06:26:






I need for some folks to share whether or not they have a cough with their GERD and how bad it is. I'm really worried about mine and wonder if it relates to cancer. Please share your experiences, thoughts, and suggestions for controlling the cough. Thanks!!
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Dear Denise,
Many people with GERD can have a cough.  There are a number of possible explanations for the cough.  Acid may reflux into the mouth and even be aspirated into the lungs, initiating a spasm of coughing.  A second explanation is a nerve reflex initiated by acid merely refluxing into the esophagus.  The acid causes spasm of the air tubes which can lead to a dry cough.  IF you have had chronic reflux, you may develop a stricture .  Food may regurgitate and be aspirated causing coughing and a choking sensation.  Finally, if you smoke, your reflux would be worse and the cigarettes could be responsible for the cough.
If you are concerned that you may have a lung cancer, you should have a chest X-ray for peace of mind.
This information is presented for educational purposes only.  Always consult your personal physician for specfic medical questions.
HFHSM.D.-rf
*keywords{ esophageal reflux, cough
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