THE CAUSAL LINK BETWEEN GERD AND CHRONIC COUGH Essay

THE CAUSAL LINK BETWEEN GERD AND CHRONIC COUGH - Essay Example Fortunately, the many studies and publications on the relationship between GERD and chronic cough have helped pediatrics to treat and mange GERD-related chronic cough better. However, there are still debates on the causal links between GERD and chronic cough, prompting the writing of this state of the science paper, which seeks to explore the already researched and published findings on the subject. Objectives: To assess the GERD treatment on chronic cough in adults and children with prolonged cough and GERD that is not interrelated to an underlying respiratory illness (for example, nonspecific chronic cough). Literatures and study findings reviews will highlight the causal link between these conditions so that the management and treatment of infants, children, and adolescents with GERD and GERD-related chronic cough could be made more accessible and effective. In this state of the science paper, different types of literatures will be reviewed, among them books, magazines, electronic and print articles from public and institutional libraries. The paper will focus on the various issues on the topic on which medical experts agree and disagree, mentioning any gaps therein. Specifically, the causal link between GERD and chronic cough in pediatric patients will be explored. ... State of Science Paper Topical Outline I. Introduction Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and chronic cough are examples of the many diseases that pediatricians encounter in their professional interaction with infants and children. GERD is a condition characterized by food (solid or liquid) already in the stomach being thrown back into the esophagus, causing irritation and the commonest and most obvious symptom of GERD, heartburn (Benich & Carek, 2011). Statistics show complications that result from GERD include asthma, Barrett's esophagus, and chronic cough or hoarseness. Research supports that chronic cough, though an indication of underlying disease is a major cause of health facility visits among infants and children. Among the causes of cough are sinus infections, allergic rhinitis, asthma, and esophageal reflux of stomach contents. Even with a recommendation and research support, the ever-changing definition of GERD, insufficient equipment, and lack of randomized controlled trials also make it rather difficult to establish the causal links between chronic cough and GERD (Fishwick & Barber, 2008). Consequent to these difficulties in ascertaining the causal and effect links between cough and GERD, opinions greatly vary between respiratory and gastroenterology stakeholders on the link between these conditions. Background Information: This will be used to establish the context and depth of the problem and will provide a foundation to explore a number of chronic cough prevention and management guidelines that have been designed with some having more positive effects on patients. Information will include the following: 1. Statistics of chronic cough in patients with gastroesophageal reflux 2. Supportive research and