Gastroesophageal reflux and asthma

Gastroesophageal reflux provokes asthma in many patients. Conversely, asthma predisposes to gastroesophageal reflux. In many patients, reflux therapy will ameliorate asthma. Recognition of this relationship is facilitated by physician awareness, clinical history, selected laboratory tests, and ultimately, a careful monitoring of the response to antireflux therapy. With the introduction of effective medical antireflux therapy, the opportunity to benefit these patients has increased. Surgical management of reflux-provoked asthma remains an effective and useful alternative in selected patients.