The Connection Between Acid Reflux and Chronic Cough

If you’ve been dealing with a persistent cough that just won’t go away, you might assume allergies or a lingering cold are to blame. But there’s another common culprit you may not have considered: acid reflux. At Atlanta ENT, Sinus & Allergy Associates, P.C., Dr. Ramie A. Tritt and our team see many patients who are surprised to learn that their throat irritation and chronic cough are tied to digestive issues.

What Is Acid Reflux?

Acid reflux occurs when stomach acid flows back into the esophagus, causing irritation. While most people associate acid reflux with heartburn, it can cause other symptoms too—especially when it reaches the throat. When stomach contents rise high enough, this condition is known as laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR).

Unlike typical reflux, which mostly affects the chest, LPR impacts the voice box, throat, and airway, leading to symptoms such as:

• Frequent throat clearing
  
  
• Hoarseness or voice changes
  
  
• A constant “lump in the throat” sensation
  
  
• Postnasal drip-like symptoms
  
  
• Chronic cough
  
  

How Acid Reflux Triggers a Chronic Cough

The throat and airway are extremely sensitive. When stomach acid comes into contact with these delicate tissues, it causes irritation and inflammation. Over time, this triggers the cough reflex as the body’s way of protecting the airway. Unfortunately, this cycle can continue indefinitely if the underlying acid reflux isn’t addressed.

You might have reflux-related cough if:

• Your cough worsens after eating, lying down, or at night
  
  
• Coughing occurs without signs of a respiratory infection
  
  
• Traditional cough remedies don’t help
  
  
• You also experience hoarseness or throat discomfort
  
  

Why See an ENT for Reflux and Chronic Cough?

While acid reflux begins in the digestive system, its complications affect the throat and airway—areas best managed by an ENT specialist. At Atlanta ENT, Sinus & Allergy Associates, P.C., we specialize in diagnosing and treating reflux-related throat conditions. Untreated reflux can lead to:

• Vocal cord damage
  
  
• Swallowing difficulties
  
  
• Chronic throat pain
  
  
• Increased risk of Barrett’s esophagus
  
  

Treatment Options for Reflux-Related Cough

Managing reflux often involves:

• Lifestyle changes: Avoiding trigger foods, not eating before bedtime, maintaining a healthy weight
  
  
• Medications: Acid reducers or proton pump inhibitors
  
  
• Specialized ENT care: If throat damage or airway involvement is present
  
  

Our team will perform a thorough evaluation, which may include an endoscopic exam of your throat and larynx, to confirm the diagnosis and recommend the best treatment plan.

Struggling with a Chronic Cough in Atlanta or Cumming, GA?

If you suspect acid reflux may be causing your persistent cough, don’t wait. Proper diagnosis and treatment can relieve symptoms and prevent long-term complications.

Schedule an appointment today at one of our convenient locations:

Author

Ramie A. Tritt, MD Ramie A. Tritt, MD, FRCSC, specializes in nasal and sinus surgery as well as snoring and sleep apnea surgery at Atlanta ENT, Sinus & Allergy Associates, P.C.’s Sandy Springs location in Atlanta, Georgia. Dr. Tritt graduated from medical school with honors from McGill University in Montreal, Canada. He completed his otolaryngology residency at McGill University and his fellowship in otology and head and neck surgery at Upstate Medical Center in Syracuse, New York. He is a diplomate of the American Board of Otolaryngology and a fellow of the American Academy of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, and the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada. Dr. Tritt is a member of the Medical Association of Georgia and the American Academy of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery. Dr. Tritt has been an instructor at national ENT meetings, a Medical Advisory Board member for computer image-guided sinus surgery, and been recognized by Atlanta Magazine as a “Doctor Who Doctors Go To”.