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Gastroesophageal reflux-induced cough syncope
1Department of Gastroenterology, University of Wisconsin Medical School-Milwaukee Campus Sinai Samaritan Medical Center, USA.
The American Journal of Gastroenterology
|December 1, 1995
Summary
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) can cause respiratory issues. This case study details a rare instance of GERD-induced cough leading to syncope, successfully treated with Nissen fundoplication.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Pulmonology
- Neurology
Background:
- Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is commonly associated with respiratory symptoms like chronic cough, hoarseness, and wheezing.
- However, syncope (fainting) as a direct consequence of GERD-induced cough is not well-documented in medical literature.
Observation:
- This report details an unusual case of a patient experiencing frequent episodes of syncope exclusively triggered by coughing.
- Diagnostic evaluation revealed a strong correlation between coughing fits and the syncopal events, pointing towards an atypical manifestation of GERD.
Findings:
- The patient's symptoms of cough-induced syncope were directly linked to gastroesophageal reflux disease.
- Surgical intervention, specifically a laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication, effectively resolved both the persistent cough and the syncopal episodes.
Implications:
- This case highlights an extremely rare but significant complication of GERD, expanding the spectrum of its potential clinical presentations.
- It underscores the importance of considering GERD in the differential diagnosis of unexplained syncope, particularly when associated with a chronic cough.
- Laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication can be an effective treatment for this specific GERD complication, offering sustained relief.