Gastroesophageal reflux disease, laryngopharyngeal reflux, and vocal cord dysfunction/Inducible laryngeal obstruction - overlapping conditions that impact asthma.

Abstract

Asthma is a chronic lung condition that may be affected by numerous medical comorbidities. Such comorbidities can influence the presentation and even the severity of asthma. Alternatively, asthma may be misdiagnosed as a comorbidity when symptoms overlap. Three medical conditions that commonly affect asthma management are gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR), and vocal cord dysfunction/Inducible laryngeal obstruction (VCD/ILO). These conditions can be difficult to distinguish from one another, and from asthma itself. In the following review, the epidemiology, pathophysiology, symptomatology, and diagnostic considerations of each condition in both adult and pediatric populations are discussed. Treatment options, and how such options may influence asthma outcomes, are included. Finally, knowledge gaps are highlighted in each area, as a better understanding of the optimal diagnostic and therapeutic approaches will allow for improved individualized care of asthma patients.