Acid buildup can lead to chronic cough?

Dear Ask The Doctor: Several years ago I went to see an allergist and was told I was allergic to mold and several other things as well. I was having a hard time breathing and had a chronic cough that nothing would take away. This has continued for years, I would say at least 7 to 8 years. Last year I went to a different doctor that specializes in asthma. He did some basic test and told me I was not allergic to anything and did not have asthma. He said my problem is acid reflux. I have no other symptoms of acid except for the chronic cough. My question is, can acid cause the cough and can it cause exhaustion. I am forcing myself to go to work every day and function. I just don't feel like myself when I am like this. Thank-you for taking the time to read this and hopefully answer.

Dear Joanne: It is correct that acid reflux can lead to a chronic cough. When the acid refluxes up into the throat it irritates the mucosa ie the inner lining and thus leads to chronic cough which you have been experiencing . You could take a trial of anti reflux medication and see whether it helps your symptoms. Also the exhaustion may be more due to you fibromyalgia rather than be related to your reflux. All the best.