Asthma and gastroesophageal reflux.

Gastroesophageal reflux and asthma are common diseases in the developed world, and they often coexist in patients. Animal experiments, epidemiologic data, and clinical studies suggest that gastroesophageal reflux may contribute to the pathogenesis of asthma. In addition to classic reflux symptoms, such patients may notice nightly exacerbations of asthma or postprandial worsening of their pulmonary symptoms.