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Do you have a chronic cough that's driving you crazy? (not to mention those around you!)

Have you been treated for asthma, allergies or bronchitis but the medications don't seem to do any good?

Here are the reasons why!

1. Acid, bile or pepsin (the main digestive enzyme in your stomach which breaks down proteins) from the stomach can reflux into the esophagus and even reach your larynx (voice box) or airways. This triggers a reflexive cough to clear the throat or lungs. 

This mechanism is a description of silent reflux, LPR (laryngopharyngeal reflux). With silent reflux you won't experience the classic heartburn symptoms traditionally associated with acid reflux.

2. Chronic irritation from reflux can sensitize the cough reflex leading to persistent coughing especially after meals or late at night. Hiatal hernia worsens reflux mechanics. The pressure of the hiatal hernia weakens the lower esophageal sphincter or valve (LES) causing more frequent reflux when lying down or bending forward. 

3. Micro aspiration of acid or bile can occur, inhaling these fluids into the airway especially while sleeping. This causes irritation, inflammation and a chronic dry cough which is sometimes misdiagnosed as asthma, post-nasal drip or even bronchitis.

4. There is finally the "catch-22" of coughing worsening acid reflux and hiatal hernia, while reflux and hiatal hernia cause coughing! 

Strong coughing increases intra-abdominal pressure which worsens acid reflux and can enlarge a hiatal hernia.

The symptoms include: a dry hacking cough worse after eating or lying down.
No improvement with medications treating other conditions.
Having a hoarse throat, have to clear your throat often, and feeling a lump in your throat.
Symptoms can be worse at night or early in the morning after lying down.

You don't need to continue putting up with a chronic cough. We can help you to get to the root cause of why you're suffering.

If you'd like help we're here for you. The best next step is to contact us for a consultation and then we can determine if what we do is a good fit for you. Call 727-335-0400.

#acidreflux #cough #rootcausemedicine