Extraesophageal manifestations of gastroesophageal reflux disease

Gastroesophageal reflux is frequently viewed as a "nuisance" problem that affects a large number of individuals with variable frequency. When physicians conceptualize the complications of gastrointestinal reflux, they generally consider them a localized esophageal problem resulting in irritation of the esophagus, bleeding esophagitis, occasional stricture formation, and the development of Barrett's esophagus. However, attention has again been focused on the potential relationship between gastroesophageal reflux and pulmonary diseases (cough, asthma, recurrent pneumonia), chest pain, and hypopharyngeal or oral disease. This paper reviews our current understanding of the extraesophageal manifestations of gastroesophageal reflux.