Reflux Asthma Symptoms
Asthma and GERD are two seemingly unrelated conditions, but doctors are now finding there is a link between the two. Although the link is not fully understood, they have developed many ways to control it so that those who suffer from the disorders in tandem can have happier and healthier lives.
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How They're Related
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A study at the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology suggests that as many as 70 percent of people with asthma also have gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). It is not completely clear how the two are related, but it is definitely clear they can cause a problem when in combination with one another. Those who experience GERD and acid reflux may experience the reflux in their lungs and other airways, making it difficult for them to breathe during asthma attacks.
Symptoms
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Most people will be able to tell quite easily if they are suffering from either of these debilitating disorders as the symptoms are quite apparent. Symptoms for GERD are usually nausea, regurgitation and heartburn. Signs of asthma include wheezing, chest pain, wheezing, shortness of breath, fatigue and signs of a cold. It is important to let your doctor know right away if you are suffering from symptoms of either disorder as they can be debilitating and potentially life threatening.
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Weight and Symptoms
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An April 2009 study conducted by the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute of the National Institutes of Health and by the American Lung Association has lead doctors to believe that poorly managed weight is a major cause for both GERD and asthma. This study shows that even while taking medicine to control both, the overweight patients suffer the most. If you are overweight and suffer from GERD or asthma or a combination, it is important to talk to your doctor about how your weight may be contributing to your symptoms and what you can do to improve your quality of life.
Silent GERD
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Silent GERD is acid reflux that does not exhibit the usual symptoms. A patient with silent GERD will not need to take acid reflux medication as the reflux will not interfere with their daily life or their asthma attacks. A recent study in the "New England Journal of Medicine" presents that patients who took medication for acid reflux did not feel significantly better than those who took placebo pills for their silent GERD. Although doctors recommend taking an anti-reflux medication if your GERD is interfering with your breathing, they reason you will not risk anything by not taking the pills if you have silent GERD.
Options
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While medicine provides some relief from these nagging symptoms, it may fall short of surgery. Patients should first go through a regimen of medicine before considering a more drastic measure. If their symptoms improve with medicine, there is no need to go through the hassle of surgery. The Cleveland Clinic and The American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology agree that surgery is a wonderful option for people whose GERD and asthma symptoms have had a negative impact on their lives. It is important to stay in contact with your doctor so he knows what is going on and can assist you in your quest for better health.
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