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From: Adam Fierer, M.D.
Date: 5/1/00
Time: 11:43:23 AM
Remote Name:
Dear Abe, Yes, it certainly is possible that gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) can cause symptoms all the way up to the throat and even in the respiratory system. These are considered atypical symptoms, but we know that some people can have reflux all the way up the esophagus. This can lead to or potentiate asthma. Phlegm in the throat is a very non-specific symptom, but could potentially be related to GERD. You would need to undergo some testing to determine whether you have abnormal acid exposure in the esophagus (24 hour pH testing) and esophageal manometry (tests the function of your esophagus) as well as probably an upper endoscopy (to look down the throat and esophagus). Generally these tests can determine whether one's symptoms (especially if they are atypical) are related to GERD.