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The Best Way to Get Rid of Cough From Acid Reflux

Acid reflux is a medical condition caused by stomach acid flowing back into your esophagus, which leads to unpleasant side effects such as heartburn, regurgitation and coughing. During acid reflux your lower esophagus is relaxed, which is caused by certain foods that inhibit its proper functioning. If left untreated, acid reflux can weaken the esophagus by eating away at the lining and lead to gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), according to the Mayo Clinic. Treatment for reducing symptoms associated with acid reflux includes changing your diet, taking medication and making small lifestyle adjustments.

  1. Diet

    • Some foods can increase the likelihood of acid reflux by relaxing your lower esophageal sphincter (LES), which allows acid to flow back into the esophagus. These trigger foods include chocolate, peppermint, tomato-based foods, spicy foods and fried and fatty foods, according to GERD.com. Fruit juices that contain citric acid, alcoholic beverages and caffeinated beverages can also cause acid reflux. Eliminate these foods from your diet until your physician says it is safe to consume. You can also reduce acid reflux by eating smaller meals, which reduces the amount of stomach acid produced during digestion.

    Medication

    • You can take either over-the-counter or prescription medication before or after eating to reduce coughing caused by acid reflux. The type of medication you use will specify when to take it for maximum relief. The types include antacids, h-2 receptor blockers and proton pump inhibitors. Antacids neutralize stomach acid, which provides quick relief from acid reflux and symptoms such as heartburn and coughing. H-2 receptor blockers reduce the amount of acid produced during digestion, but should not be used for fast relief as it takes from two to four days before it begins to work, according to the Mayo Clinic. Proton pump inhibitors block acid production by blocking enzymes from secreting acid, which allows your esophageal tissue time to heal itself from acid burns. Promotility drugs can also be taken to empty the stomach quickly, which prevents acid from flowing back into the esophagus, according to GERD.com. You can only obtain these stomach-emptying drugs by a prescription.

    Lifestyle Changes

    • You can reduce the likelihood of coughing by sitting up for at least three hours after eating, which prevents stomach acid from flowing back into the esophagus. According to the Mayo Clinic, wearing loose clothing reduces pressure put on the abdomen and LES, which lowers your risk of acid being pushed up. Exercise can also benefit your acid reflux symptoms, as excess weight can put pressure on your abdomen and increase the risk of acid reflux.

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