Cough from Acid Reflux and How to Treat it with Homeopathy

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Date: 02-01-2025

Acid reflux occurs when acid from the stomach moves into the esophagus, commonly known as a food pipe. It causes irritation of the tissue lining, leading to heartburn. When the acid irritates the throat, it may lead to coughing. According to studies, long-term cough due to acid reflux may be a sign of gastroesophageal reflux disease or GERD.

What is GERD?

Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease, commonly known as GERD, is a chronic digestive disorder. It affects the lower esophageal sphincter—a muscular ring between the esophagus and stomach. When the muscle cannot close after food has entered the stomach, acid from this stomach goes back into the esophagus, causing excessive irritation and inflammation.

The early symptoms of this condition include heartburn, difficulty swallowing, regurgitation, chest pain, etc. In some people, GERD leads to excessive hoarseness and persistent coughing.

Occasional acid reflux is normal, but if you experience it in the long term, the condition may be alarming. In this situation, consulting the doctor should be your priority. Many treatment options are available for GERD, including conventional and non-conventional medicines, like homeopathy.

Signs of Cough from Acid Reflux

If you experience a persistent cough, get your symptoms evaluated by the doctor. If the cough is related to GERD, you will also have other symptoms.

● Chest pain is one of the most common symptoms of GERD. It is caused by the stomach acid flowing back into the esophagus.

● You may experience persistent unease and discomfort in the stomach, resulting in nausea.

● Some people suffering from GERD experience pain while swallowing their food. Such pain may occur in any part of the throat, including the back of your mouth, esophagus, or tonsils. The pain may be developed by eating any kind of food—hard or soft.

● Heartburn is one of the most common symptoms of GERD. You may feel persistent irritation in your stomach, leading to uneasiness.

● Chronic cough or hoarseness is a common symptom of GERD. The cough may last for weeks, in some situations, for months, making it difficult to identify the root cause.

● When you suddenly lose your appetite for no substantial reason and it is accompanied by other listed symptoms, you may be suffering from GERD.

● Many people complain about abdominal pain. The pain may also spread to other areas, including your chest or back. Over time, it starts affecting your quality of life.

● The frequent sour taste of acid is another symptom of GERD, and the cough from GERD becomes uncomfortable for many people. It may worsen after eating certain foods or even lying down.

● You may experience the feeling of choking at equal intervals. The sensation may make you feel as if something has stuck into your mouth. It may also lead to difficulty breathing.

● Halitosis or bad breath is another common symptom of GERD and cough arising from it. The symptom occurs when stomach acid goes back into the esophagus.

What are the Causes of GERD?

In GERD, acid from the stomach travels back to the esophagus, making it uncomfortable for the body and leading to the above-listed symptoms. If left untreated, it may turn into more serious health conditions. The following reasons may lead to GERD.

● Smoking Tobacco
Smoking or consuming tobacco in any form is considered a major risk factor for GERD. People who smoke often experience heartburn and regurgitation.

● Obesity
As per stats, GERD is more common in people who are obese than in people who are not. Extra weight in the body puts pressure on the stomach, making the acid travel back to the food pipe.

● Pregnancy
Pregnant women often complain about acid reflux and cough from it. During pregnancy, progesterone relaxes the muscles in the lower esophageal sphincter. It makes the acid flow back to the food pipe.

● Some Foods and Beverages
Certain foods and beverages may increase your chances of developing GERD. For instance, spicy foods, chocolate, and tomato-based products may trigger the episode by irritating your gastric contents.

● Hiatal Hernia
Hiatal hernia is another cause of acid reflux, heartburn, and cough—all of which are recognized as the symptoms of GERD.

● Alcohol
People who drink too much suffer from gastroesophageal reflux disease, leading to discomfort and heartburn.

● Medication
According to doctors, some medications may lead to acid reflux by weakening or relaxing the lower esophageal sphincter. It may cause symptoms such as heartburn and cough.

a. Calcium channel blockers used to treat high blood pressure.

b. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, such as ibuprofen, aspirin, and naproxen.

c. Antidepressants, such as tricyclics and selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors.

d. Sedatives and tranquilizers for insomnia and acidity.

e. Beta-blockers for heart disease.

How is GERD Diagnosed?

Around 75 percent of cases of coughing by GERD might not have gastrointestinal symptoms. To diagnose GERD and associated chronic cough, the doctors will take into account your detailed case history. As the symptoms of the condition may vary, they may assess them individually. For those experiencing LPR without heartburn, it becomes more difficult to diagnose chronic cough.

● GERD is diagnosed through pH monitoring. The test is used based on the symptoms and case history. The doctor places a probe through the nose into the food pipe and measures the pH levels of the esophagus.

● A Bravo esophageal pH test is another way to diagnose the condition. The doctor places a small capsule in the food pipe during endoscopy and checks for the pH level.

● You may also be tried on proton pump inhibitor or PPI, a type of medication for GERD. If the symptoms improve during this time, it indicates that the cough is related to acid reflux.

Complications of GERD

If GERD is not properly managed or diagnosed on time, the condition may get complicated in the following ways.

● Continuous irritation and inflammation of the esophageal mucosa due to acid reflux may result in the scarring of the tissues of the food pipe. It may cause permanent damage to the food pipe. You may also experience difficulty swallowing the food.

● Constant exposure of the acid to the esophagus may lead to esophageal erosion.

● The stomach acid may cause an open sore or ulcer in the esophageal mucosa because of continuous erosion. It may result in pain and bleeding from the ulcer.

● Because of the persistent reflux in a few patients, the normal lining of the esophagus is replaced by abnormal tissues. The condition is a precancerous condition called Barrett’s esophagus.

Treatment of GERD through Homeopathy

Homeopathy is an alternative medicine that helps treat various chronic conditions. Homeopathy provides long-term relief from health issues without causing side effects. People who do not feel relieved after conventional treatments resort to homeopathy. Although the duration of homeopathic treatment is a little longer than regular, you may experience results in the long term.

Various health conditions, including cough from acid reflux or GERD, can be successfully treated through homeopathy medicines.

How can Homeopathy Help with GERD?

Homeopathy works for GERD in the following ways:

● The homeopathy doctor looks into your individual symptoms experienced by GERD. Before prescribing the medicine, they take into account certain factors such as your lifestyle, dietary habits, and emotional state. The treatment works on a deeper level to correct the imbalance in the system.

● Homeopathy medicines for GERD treat the disease from its very root, thereby cutting down the chances of relapse. It corrects the function of your digestive system by regulating acid secretion and digestion.

● As you start taking these medicines, you will feel relief from symptoms like chest pain, cough, sour taste, heartburn, etc.

● Under mild to moderate cases of GERD, homeopathy helps strengthen the muscles of the lower esophageal sphincter and prevent the backflow of the stomach acid.

● Homeopathic medicines for GERD reduce your dependency on antacids and other conventional medicines.

● Homeopathic treatment for GERD is completely safe and non-habit forming. It can be opted for by patients of all age groups. Although slow, the results from this treatment are long-lasting. That said, severe cases of GERD may require surgical intervention.

The Scope of Homeopathy in Treating GERD

If you have been experiencing mild to moderate symptoms of GERD or are already diagnosed in the initial stage of this condition, you can opt for homeopathy as the first line of treatment. It will help in early treatment of the condition with minimum chances of relapse. Alternatively, you can use homeopathy as a supportive treatment with your conventional medicines.

In mild to moderate cases, the duration of homeopathy treatment for GERD is minimized. But if you have any associated health concerns, it might prolong the duration. Homeopathy medicines for GERD are being relied on for various reasons.

● Homeopathy medicines promote healing in the initial stages of GERD.

● They help by treating the existing symptoms of the condition and help recover from the disease.

● Homeopathy medicines for GERD also prevent the recurrence of gastroesophageal reflux.

● When homeopathic treatment for GERD is taken for a long time, it stops the further progression of the disease. Over time, the symptoms also begin to reduce.

● This form of treatment tackles GERD on a root level without leading to any side effects.

As per some theories, gastroesophageal reflux in some people may be the result of mental and emotional imbalance. People who feel constant stress, worry, anxiety, and other psychological issues often fall prey to acid reflux and cough from it. In this situation, homeopathic treatment comes as an efficient solution. The medicines in this alternative therapy not only ease the physical symptoms of the person but target psychological aspects as well.

Homeopathic treatment for GERD balances the function of the digestive system, helps strengthen the integrity of the esophageal sphincter, and cuts down stress levels—all of which promote overall well-being and minimize the chances of flare-ups or relapse.

What is Involved in the Homeopathic Treatment of GERD?

Homeopathy uses a holistic approach to healing. It aims to stimulate the natural healing process and response of the body. During the treatment, your unique symptoms, constitution, and overall health are taken into consideration.

● The first appointment includes taking into account your health history and specific symptoms. The doctor will ask you everything about the condition. As the symptoms vary from one person to another, the remedies are provided accordingly.

● After your appointment, the homeopathic doctor will prescribe medicines. If important, you may also be asked to undergo some routine tests. It is usually recommended in the advanced stage of GERD.

● Besides medicines, you will be given some dietary instructions, including what to eat and what not to eat.

● The homeopathic doctor will also recommend lifestyle changes to expedite the treatment and speed up recovery. A healthy lifestyle also minimizes the chances of relapse.

Medicines for GERD

The doctors use various homeopathic medicines for the treatment of GERD and cough arising out of this condition. These medicines are considered efficient in managing the symptoms of the disease. They help decrease the build-up of acid, strengthen the lower esophageal sphincter, and restore the regular function of the digestive system.

Homeopathic medicines for GERD do not have any side effects compared to allopathic treatments. Here are the most common medicines prescribed by the doctor.

● Nux Vomica
Nux vomica treats the initial symptoms of the condition, such as nausea, vomiting, and cough caused by acid reflux disease. Depending on the severity of the condition, the doctor may prescribe a suitable dosage. You may have to stay away from spicy foods during your course of treatment with this medicine.

● Calcarea Carb
Acid reflux causes regurgitation of sour substances with the flow of watery and sour fluid from the mouth. To treat this symptom, the homeopathy doctor will prescribe Calcarea Carb. This medicine addresses other symptoms of the condition, including bitter belches, vomiting, bitter slime, heartburn, burning of the throat when you swallow your food, and so on.

● Lycopodium
Lycopodium is another effective medicine used for the treatment of GERD. It is prescribed when the gastroesophageal reflux disease happens as a result of indigestion. This medicine helps relieve bloating and nausea and regulates the function of your digestive system.

● Natrum Carbonicum
If you often complain about heartburn, indigestion, or cough because of acid reflux, the doctor may prescribe this medicine to ease the symptoms. This medicine is also given to patients who have ulcers. It is important to mention that you have to be particular about your dietary instructions during the course of treatment with this medicine, or it will not show any effectiveness.

● Natrum Phosphoricum
Natrum phosphoricum is prescribed to individuals who experience sour regurgitation due to GERD or who consume too much sugar or dairy products. When you take this medicine, the doctor will advise you not to consume sugar or dairy in excessive amounts. Focusing on diet will expedite the treatment.

● Bryonia
Bryonia for GERD is prescribed to individuals who often complain about heaviness in the stomach. In some cases, the doctor prescribes this medicine to people who experience a sour taste in their mouth and rising acid in their stomach. Other indications that this medicine targets include acid reflux along with being thirsty.

● Carbo Vegetabilis
Carbo Vegetabilis is another effective medication for the treatment of gastroesophageal reflux disease. The medicine treats belching experienced due to the formation of gas in the stomach. Besides this, it targets bloating and eases the feeling of heaviness.

● Pulsatilla
One of the most commonly used medicines for acid reflux, Pulsatilla, is prescribed in case of indigestion and excessive coughing experienced due to GERD. When you are on this medicine, the doctor will advise you not to consume fatty foods, cakes, or ice cream. Follow these instructions to speed up the treatment.

● Arsenicum Album
Arsenicum album is another popular homeopathic medicine used for the treatment of acid reflux disease. The medicines involving this ingredient are prescribed to people who experience burning sensations in the stomach. The doctor also prescribes the consumption of this medicine if you experience symptoms like vomiting and diarrhea.

● Antimonium Crudum
If you are a non-vegetarian who often complains about acid reflux and has developed a cough because of this condition, the doctor will prescribe Antimonium Crudum. This ingredient applies heat to the stomach so that the pain caused by acid reflux disease is cured. You may be advised not to consume meat in excessive amounts when you are on this medicine.

● Silicea Terra
Silicea terra is one of the powerful medicines prescribed for GERD. It comprises silica, the substances naturally found in the crust of the earth. This medicine can be taken by both adults and infants who experience vomiting, acid reflux, and other digestive issues.

● Robinia
Robinia is a top-listed medicine for the treatment of GERD and its symptoms, including cough from acid reflux. It is prepared naturally from a plant called yellow locust. Besides cough, it addresses other symptoms of acid reflux, including intense heartburn, sour belching, vomiting, heartburn, and acidity that usually worsens at night. The medication also improves your sleep quality as no discomfort is caused in your sleep because of acidity.

● Iris Versicolor
Iris versicolor is another natural medicine that relieves various symptoms of GERD and prevents the chances of relapse. It is prepared from the plant called blue flag. It is often prescribed to individuals who experience sore or bitter belching. Besides this, iris versicolor is equally effective in people who experience difficulty swallowing their food or have sour bitter fluid that burns their throat. Initially, you may experience increased burning sensations. But over time, these symptoms are reduced. Some people experience excessive indigestion while starting this medicine, but these episodes subside after frequent dosages. In addition, iris verisicolor is well-indicated for headaches arising due to acidity.

● Natrum Phos
If you experience heartburn and difficulty swallowing your food due to a cough from acid reflux, the doctor will prescribe Natrum phos as a part of your homeopathic treatment. This medicine also helps relieve other symptoms of the condition, such as water brash, belching, vomiting of sour fluid, cheesy or curdled masses, and more. Your lump sensation in the throat will be reduced once you start taking this medicine regularly. Another plus point of this medicine is that it addresses loss of appetite in people who suffer from acid reflux.

● Sulphuric Acid
Sulphuric acid is a common ingredient in a majority of homeopathic medicines, including the ones used for the treatment of GERD. It is prescribed to individuals experienced intense sour belching and sour vomiting. It also works effectively in case of heartburn and nausea. A regular dosage of this medicine regulates digestion.

While these medicines work effectively in treating all the symptoms of GERD, you must not self-prescribe yourself. All these medicines should only be taken under the guidance of a qualified homeopathic doctor. They will evaluate your health history thoroughly and may prescribe one or a combination of one or more medicines listed above.

Homeopathic Treatment for Acid Reflux in Infants

While many of you may not know, infants, too, suffer from acid reflux and other symptoms related to the condition. As per stats, up to 50% of infants experience GERD at some of during the first year of their life. You can opt for homeopathic treatments for treating GERD in your infant as it doesn’t have any side effects.

● Natrum Phosphoricum is prescribed to infants suffering from GERD. This remedy works by reducing acidity in the stomach. It also eases the symptoms like vomiting and indigestion. The doctor recommends this medicine for infants who vomit after eating or have sour-smelling burps.

● Another medicine that many homeopathy doctors prescribe to infants with GERD is Carbo Vegetabilis. It helps relieve the most common symptoms of acid reflux in babies, like flatulence and bloating.

● Chamomilla is another effective homeopathic remedy for infantile GERD. This medicine works well for babies who often become restless and irritable after feeding. It happens because of excessive acid reflux and discomfort, such as hiccups, colic pains, and excessive gas formation.

Duration of Treatment

With homeopathy, GERD is treatable in adults and infants alike. At the same time, you must understand that the duration of treatment may be a little longer when compared to conventional treatments like allopathy. This is because homeopathic medicines target the root cause of the condition instead of just treating it on the surface.

Most patients start responding to the treatment within 6-8 weeks of starting their medication. The duration of GERD is further characterized by the following factors:

● The severity of the disease. The initial stages of GERD can be treated in less time compared to the advanced stages

● The causes behind GERD

● Other underlying medical conditions make the treatment a little slower than otherwise

● Medication, including current and past medication

● Lifestyle changes and dietary habits of the patient

● The regularity of homeopathic treatment

Dietary Management for GERD

You must combine your homeopathic treatment for GERD with dietary management to get effective results in a short span. If you don’t follow the dietary instructions imparted by the doctor, the treatment may not work for you at all. Here are some tips to manage your diet.

● Instead of a wide meal spread, consume smaller portions of food in frequent intervals. It will prevent excessive pressure on the LES.

● The doctor will give you a list of food items to consume and foods to avoid. Do as suggested so that trigger foods don’t come in your way of treatment.

● Choose low-fat proteins and fiber-rich food as they help regulate the digestive system.

● Drink plenty of water during your course of treatment to regulate digestion as well as bowel movement.

● Lastly, practice mindful eating. You should eat for the health of your body and not merely for the taste buds.

Foods to Eat

Some food items do not interfere with your homeopathic treatment for GERD. These foods also expedite the effectiveness of medicines in your body so that you are relieved from the disease once and for all. Consume these food items regularly, and you will be able to manage your GERD symptoms more effectively.

● Whole foods that are prepared fresh and do not contain too many added preservatives or chemicals are good for individuals with GERD.

● Fresh and colorful vegetables, such as green leafy vegetables, carrots, cucumbers, sweet potatoes, green peas, etc., are highly nutritious. A plant-based diet rich in antioxidants, nutrients, fiber, and water content helps manage the symptoms of GERD in a better way.

● Fermented products and probiotics, such as curd and apple-cider vinegar, help balance the acid present in the stomach and reduce acid reflux. Although curd can be consumed by anyone, apple cider vinegar should be taken only after the advice of your doctor.

● Foods with high fiber, such as nuts, seeds, vegetables, lentils, whole grains, and fruits, are healthy for people who have acidity issues.

● Foods containing healthy fats like olive oil, coconut oil, coconut milk, chia seeds, flax seeds, and almonds are good sources of nutrition for people with GERD.

● Low-fat and lean proteins, such as wild fish and soaked beans, can also be consumed upon the advice of the doctor.

● Consume alkaline foods and drinks as they help reduce the irritation and inflammation of the esophagus. Some alkaline foods are rich in minerals, vitamins, fiber, and other nutrients that regulate overall gastrointestinal health. Incorporate food items like apples, bananas, cherries, carrots, and leafy vegetables into your daily diet.

Food to Avoid

It is important not to consume foods that may trigger acid reflux in your body. Not only do these foods worsen the condition of your digestive system, but they also interfere with your homeopathic treatment for GERD.

● Do not consume animal products or over-consume dairy products, such as milk, cheese, and more, as they are difficult to digest.

● Do not eat artificial beverages such as energy drinks, and keep a check on caffeinated drinks like tea and coffee.

● Avoid the consumption of carbonated drinks.

● Avoid all allergy-causing foods that may lead to sensitivity in your body, such as synthetic ingredients, certain nuts, and gluten.

● Do not consume fatty foods, such as cheese, processed meat, junk food, and processed foods.

● Stop the consumption of alcoholic drinks like wine, beer, and other liquor, as they are difficult to digest.

● Stop consuming spicy foods or food items high in sodium and salt.

● Do not consume tomatoes or tomato-based products, as they can worsen the symptoms of GERD in some people.

● Avoid eating chocolates. They comprise methylxanthine—a substance that can relax the smooth muscles in the lower esophageal sphincter, thereby increasing the chances of acid reflux.

Lifestyle Changes for Patients with GERD

Making favorable lifestyle changes is highly recommended for an effective GERD treatment. The following changes in your lifestyle will also work in favor of your overall health.

● Taking your dietary habits seriously is the first lifestyle change that expedites GERD treatment. Avoid all trigger foods and consume a healthy diet to keep acid reflux at bay.

● Along with focusing on your diet, you must also focus on maintaining a healthy weight. GERD symptoms may aggravate in people who are fat, and these symptoms may put extra pressure on the stomach. Be regular with workouts and other forms of exercise, such as Yoga, swimming, walking, and more.

● Do not lie down immediately after eating your food, as it may increase the chances of acid reflux. Wait for at least 2-3 hours before retiring to bed. Having early dinners may help.

● Elevate your head while sleeping with pillows, or use an adjustable bed frame.

● Quit smoking as it weakens the LES which further allows stomach acid to flow back into the esophagus, triggering the symptoms of GERD.

● Opt for loose-fitting clothes as tight clothing, including waistbands and tight belts, put additional pressure on the stomach and worsen the symptoms of GERD.

Get the Best Homeopathy Treatment for GERD by Dr. Vikas Singhal

Dr. Vikas Singhal is one of the most celebrated names in the field of homeopathy. He has been practicing at his clinic, Dr. Singhal Homeo, in Chandigarh since 2004. In his long practice of over two decades, Dr. Singhal has treated some of the most complex cases of GERD in patients of different age groups. His approach to classic homeopathy has helped many patients to get rid of GERD permanently. Whether you are experiencing excessive coughing due to acid reflux or have any other problem, you can visit Dr. Singhal’s clinic in Chandigarh for an effective treatment.

From discussing your overall health to understanding the core of your problem, Dr. Singhal journeys with you till the end of your treatment. His systematic protocol for treating the causes of GERD has received accolades in the medical field. Schedule your appointment at Dr. Singhal Homeo clinic in Chandigarh now.

Takeaway

Excessive coughing and other symptoms of GERD are treatable in homeopathy. This alternative science works by targeting the root cause of the problem and removing it permanently from your system. Watch your symptoms carefully, and if they persist for a long time, opt for a suitable homeopathy treatment for relief.

Cough from Acid Reflux and How to Treat it with Homeopathy