 |
Asthma can be complicated by gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), and in turn allergies can cause GERD. It is important to identify GERD and VCD in conjunction with treatment for allergies and asthma in order to limit unnecessary medications or more serious outcomes. The board-certified allergists of Allergy & Asthma SpecialistsSMare trained to determine if GERD is complicating treatment for asthma.
What is gastroesophageal reflux disease?
Gastroesophageal reflux disease is a common condition in which the contents of the stomach, including acid, can back up into the esophagus and/or throat. It occurs because the ring of muscles, or the lower esophageal sphincter, that separate the top of the stomach from the esophagus is weak and does not close tightly, allowing the flow of stomach contents back into the esophagus.
Postnasal drip and mucus accumulation in the stomach often trigger GERD in allergic individuals. GERD is prevalent in asthma patients and must be considered as a trigger for asthma flares.
What Triggers GERD?
- Food Choices
- Smoking
- Obesity
- Pregnancy
- Hiatal Hernia
- Allergic reactions such as post nasal drip and mucus accumulation
Symptoms of GERD include:
- Chronic cough or sore throat
- Hoarseness
- Wheezing
- Asthma
- Apnea
- Dental erosions
- Laryngitis, sinusitis or ear infections
- Belching
If you think GERD plays a role in your allergies or asthma, call (800) 86-COUGH, option 2, to schedule a consultation.
Allergy & Asthma SpecialistsSMis a group practice with eight locations in Philadelphia and the surrounding suburbs thatprovides state-of-the-art medical care in a personal and caring environment, emphasizing the control of asthma and allergic disease, while avoiding side effects from medications.
Allergy & Asthma SpecialistsSM
Locations: Blue Bell, King of Prussia, Collegeville, Pottstown, Philadelphia, Jenkintown, Lansdale and Doylestown
Office hours: 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday-Friday. Evening appointments are available weekly on alternating days.
Toll-free: (800) 86-COUGH
Local: (610) 825-5800
Website: www.AllergyandAsthmaWellness.com
