Response:

Coughing is a natural reflex that helps remove irritants from the respiratory tract. Chronic cough typically lasts over 8 weeks. Many factors can cause chronic cough, including chronic bronchitis, persistent infections (like pneumonia), the use of ace inhibitors, malignancy, interstitial lung disease, chronic sinusitis, chronic pharyngitis, and prolonged post-nasal drip irritating the upper respiratory tract.

Frequent alcohol consumption is a common cause of gastroesophageal reflux, which is often mistaken for other conditions and overlooked. Alcohol, and fermented products like beer, reduce the tone of the lower esophageal sphincter. This muscle acts like a valve, preventing acid from the stomach from refluxing, thus facilitating acid reflux and causing heartburn.

Unlike coughs caused by common respiratory illnesses, coughs due to gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) exhibit distinct clinical characteristics. Patients often experience a persistent cough, lasting over 4 weeks, which is recurrent and occurs multiple times daily.

In addition to coughing, patients report a burning sensation behind the breastbone, feeling like a warm stream spreading from the epigastrium (above the navel) to the chest. This symptom often becomes more pronounced over time, particularly after a heavy meal or consuming alcohol. Prolonged reflux can also lead to hoarseness, especially in the morning, accompanied by bad breath. If acid exposure to the oral cavity is long-term, tooth enamel may erode.

A crucial sign that helps differentiate reflux-induced cough from other respiratory causes is the presence of characteristic digestive symptoms, including frequent burping and heartburn. Patients may also experience fatigue, loss of appetite, epigastric pain, and sometimes nausea or vomiting.

You should not self-medicate with cough suppressants. Instead, you should visit a respiratory specialist. Doctors can then examine you, determine the cause of your cough, and provide appropriate treatment. During holidays, individuals with a history of chronic cough or reflux should limit alcohol consumption, avoid overeating, and not lie down immediately after meals.

Dr. Phung Thi Thom

Department of Respiratory Medicine

Tam Anh General Hospital Hanoi