Gastroesophageal reflux disease, or GERD, is a condition in which acidic stomach contents reflux up into the esophagus. It can occur in any position, but is particularly common if a person is lying flat, such as when sleeping. The airway and digestive tract share the throat. Acid reflux can make its way to the throat, where it may be inhaled without a person being aware of it. Small amounts may go unnoticed at the time of inhalation yet still cause respiratory problems.
Cough
Aspiration of small amounts of acidic stomach contents can irritate the respiratory system. Irritation of the larynx, or voice-box, the trachea, or windpipe, and the airways can cause a cough. These structures have nerve endings that can be stimulated by irritants such as small amounts of chemicals from the stomach. The nerves detect a foreign irritant and initiate a cough to try to expel it.
Asthma
According to "Harrison's Principles of Internal Medicine" asthma is a condition in which the airways are particularly sensitive to environmental triggers. These triggers, such as cold air, pollutants and animal dander, cause the airways to narrow and secrete excessive amounts of mucus. The narrow airways restrict the flow of air into and out of the lungs, and mucus can plug the airways. Asthma can be worsened by gastroesophageal reflux disease. The refluxed acid irritates the airways, leading to the asthmatic response.
Pneumonitis
Aspiration of larger amounts of stomach contents causes a chemical pneumonitis. This is when chemicals, such as acid from the stomach, enter into the lungs and damage the lung tissues. Symptoms may include cough, shortness of breath and pain in the chest.
References
- "Harrison's Principles of Internal Medicine"; Anthony S. Fauci et al.; 17th Ed 2008
- "Current Medical Diagnosis and Treatment"; Stephen J. McPhee and Maxine Papadakis; 49th Ed 2010
