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That persistent cough, the one that lingers long after a cold is gone, could be more than just a tickle in your throat. It might be a symptom of Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD), and you’re likely wondering “How Can I Stop A Gerd Cough?” The good news is, managing GERD and its associated cough is often achievable through lifestyle adjustments and, in some cases, medical interventions. Let’s explore the strategies you can implement to find relief.
Understanding and Addressing Your GERD Cough
A GERD cough isn’t caused by a respiratory infection, but rather by stomach acid flowing back up into the esophagus and sometimes even reaching the throat and airways. This backflow, known as reflux, irritates the sensitive lining, triggering a cough reflex. The importance of identifying GERD as the underlying cause is crucial because treating the cough alone won’t provide long-term relief. Instead, you need to tackle the root problem: the acid reflux itself.
Several lifestyle modifications can significantly reduce acid reflux and, consequently, the cough. These include:
- Dietary Changes: Avoiding trigger foods like fatty foods, caffeine, chocolate, alcohol, and spicy foods. Consider keeping a food diary to identify your personal triggers.
- Eating Habits: Eating smaller, more frequent meals instead of large ones. Avoid eating within 2-3 hours of lying down.
- Elevating the Head of Your Bed: Raising the head of your bed by 6-8 inches can help prevent acid from flowing back up while you sleep. You can achieve this by using bed risers or a wedge pillow.
If lifestyle changes aren’t enough, over-the-counter medications like antacids, H2 blockers, or proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) may be helpful. However, it’s important to talk to your doctor before starting any new medication, especially if you’re already taking other medications or have underlying health conditions. In some cases, your doctor may recommend further testing, such as an endoscopy, to assess the severity of your GERD and rule out other possible causes of your cough.
Here’s a summary of possible actions:
- Identify trigger foods.
- Adjust eating habits.
- Elevate bed.
Ready to take control of your GERD cough and find lasting relief? Consult a healthcare professional for personalized advice and treatment options tailored to your specific needs.