Respiratory complications of gastrointestinal diseases

Acid reflux is becoming increasingly well recognized as an important factor in the pathophysiology of diseases that affect the respiratory tract. The pathophysiologic mechanisms responsible for the production of reflux-induced respiratory symptoms involve direct chemical injury, as well as neural reflexes. Acid reflux has been suggested as a causal factor in the development of asthma, chronic cough, pneumonia, and apnea. Although these symptoms are significant causes of illness and healthcare use, patients who suffer from these conditions often do not report typical reflux symptoms, such as heartburn and acid regurgitation. The purpose of this article is to describe the pathogenesis and clinical syndromes affecting the respiratory tract that are commonly encountered in clinical practice and their treatment.