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Check nowA dry cough can be a surprising symptom of acid reflux. Here our Digestive expert Ali Cullen explains why this irritating symptom can occur as a result of this common digestive issue, and how a range of home, herbal and conventional remedies could help.
Acid reflux is a common digestive complaint nowadays, with up to 60% of the population thought to experience intermittent symptoms, and up to 20-30% of people suffering from more regular episodes.
Acid reflux occurs as a result of the improper functioning of the lower oesophageal sphincter (LOS). This ring of muscles acts as the gateway between our oesophagus and stomach, so the muscle opens to allow the food we eat into the stomach, and closes again to prevent any backflow.
However, if this sphincter isn’t functioning as it should, we can experience acid reflux as the contents of our stomach creep backwards into our oesophagus. This can give rise to heartburn and other uncomfortable symptoms.
One of the lesser known symptoms associated with acid reflux is a dry cough.
As the acidic contents of our stomach make contact with our oesophagus we can experience a number of symptoms. Heartburn is the obvious one, as the defenceless lining of our oesophagus comes under attack, but actually, other symptoms may also be apparent such as a dry cough.
A dry cough, as a result of acid reflux may occur as a result of the backflow of contents entering the oesophagus, and even reaching the pharynx, or the back of the throat, which can then triggers a natural cough reflex.
This symptom may or may not occur with other symptoms including hiccups, regurgitation or nausea.
Look out for coughing at night, after meals, when you are lying down, or for mystery coughs when you have a clear chest, as these may indicate your symptoms are more likely to be related to acid reflux.
It is important to firstly try and determine the cause of your dry cough. If the cough is likely to be the result of acid reflux, there are some simple tips which may be useful:
Although we do have some remedies which can help with regular dry, tickly coughs (click the link for more information) if you suspect your cough is a result of acid reflux then there are some other remedies that may be of use to you.
For all persistent coughs we would always recommend you pay a visit to your doctor. They will be able to check your chest and decide what might be at the root of the cause.
If acid reflux is likely to be to blame, your doctor may prescribe some antacid medication. This medication could help to address some of the associated symptoms, but always return to your GP if your symptoms persist.
1. Paul IM, Beiler J and McMonagle A et al. Effect of honey, dextromethorphan and no treatment on nocturnal cough and sleep quality for coughing children and their parents. Arch Pediatr Adolesc Med, 2007, 161(12), (1140-1146
Looking for help easing those symptoms of indigestion such as, bloating, fullness and flatulence associated with over-indulgence?
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Looking for help easing those symptoms of indigestion such as, bloating, fullness and flatulence associated with over-indulgence?
Then look no further than Digestisan Oral drops.
"Excellent product for digestive issues"
To find local independent stores in your area that sell Digestisan Oral drops, simply type your postcode below.
Check the health of your digestive system using our simple test.
Check nowDigestisan Oral Drops: A traditional herbal medicinal product used for indigestion, sensation of fullness and flatulence associated with over-indulgence in food or drink, or both, exclusively based upon long-standing use as a traditional remedy.
Always read the leaflet.
Acid reflux at night is an all-too-common problem, contributing to an estimated 7% of sleepless nights, which can lead to fatigue, increased anxiety or concentration lapses the following day.
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