8 Tips to Stop a GERD Cough

 

8 Tips to Stop a GERD Cough

A persistent cough that won't go away could be more than just a cold — it might be linked to GERD (Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease). If you’ve been wondering “Does GERD cause coughing?” or “Can GERD make you cough?”, the answer is yes. In fact, GERD-related coughing, commonly known as GERD cough, is a lesser-known but uncomfortable symptom of acid reflux.

When stomach acid flows back into the esophagus, it can irritate the throat and airways, leading to acid reflux and coughing. Fortunately, there are effective strategies for treating cough from acid reflux.

Here are 8 practical tips on how to stop GERD cough instantly and get lasting relief.

  1. Elevate Your Head While Sleeping: Gravity helps keep acid in the stomach. Elevating your head 6–8 inches while sleeping can reduce nighttime reflux and coughing.

    Tip: Use a wedge pillow or raise the head of your bed instead of stacking pillows.

  2. Avoid Late-Night Meals: Eating close to bedtime increases the risk of acid reflux. Give your stomach time to digest before lying down.

    Tip: Eat at least 2–3 hours before going to bed to help reduce GERD cough at night.

  3. Eat Smaller, Frequent Meals: Large meals put pressure on the stomach and increase the chance of reflux. Smaller, well-balanced meals are easier to digest.

    Tip: Avoid overeating, and opt for 5–6 light meals a day.

  4. Stay Away from Trigger Foods: Certain foods relax the lower esophageal sphincter and allow acid to escape into the esophagus.

    Common triggers include:

    • Spicy foods
    • Caffeine
    • Chocolate
    • Citrus fruits
    • Tomatoes
    • Fatty or fried foods

    Avoiding these can help you get rid of GERD cough naturally.

  5. Maintain a Healthy Weight: Excess weight around the abdomen puts pressure on the stomach, increasing reflux.

    Tip: Losing even a small amount of weight can reduce acid reflux and coughing significantly.

  6. Avoid Smoking and Alcohol: Both weaken the lower esophageal sphincter and worsen reflux symptoms.

    Tip: Quit smoking and limit or avoid alcohol consumption to support long-term relief from GERD cough.

  7. Chew Gum After Meals: Chewing sugar-free gum boosts saliva production, which helps neutralize stomach acid and clear it from the esophagus.

    Tip: Try chewing for 30 minutes after eating to ease GERD-related coughing.

  8. Use Medications When Needed: Over-the-counter antacids, H2 blockers, or proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) can help reduce acid production and prevent reflux.

    Tip: Talk to your doctor about the best options for treating cough from acid reflux safely.

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