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Is Acid Reflux Causing My Cough?
January 19, 2026
A lingering cough that just won’t quit can be frustrating — especially when you’ve tried all the usual remedies. But if it tends to flare up after meals or at night, acid reflux could be to blame.
“Most people think of reflux as heartburn or regurgitation,” says Raza Shariff, MD, with Hartford HealthCare Medical Group. “But stomach acid can also reach the throat and irritate the vocal cords, leading to a chronic cough.”
Here’s how to tell if reflux might be behind that nagging cough — and what you can do to calm it down.
1. Notice when your cough happens
Timing can be a big clue.
“If your cough tends to worsen after eating, lying down, or during the night, that’s often a sign of reflux,” says Dr. Shariff. “It’s especially common after large or late meals.”
You might also notice other subtle signs — a sour taste in your mouth, hoarseness in the morning, frequent throat clearing or that “lump in the throat” feeling.
> Related: What Causes Acid Reflux At Night?
2. Notice what happens after trigger foods
Pay attention to what’s on your plate before your cough starts.
“Greasy, spicy, or acidic foods can all relax the valve between your stomach and esophagus, allowing acid to move upward,” says Dr. Shariff. “Caffeine, chocolate, alcohol and mint are other common culprits.”
If your cough kicks in after these foods — and improves when you cut back — reflux is likely part of the problem.
> Related: 7 Things That Might Be Making Your Acid Reflux Worse
3. Watch how your eating habits affect your cough
It’s not just what you eat. Timing and portion size matter, too.
“Eating smaller, slower meals gives your stomach time to digest without building pressure,” says Dr. Shariff. “And waiting at least two to three hours before lying down after a meal helps prevent acid from backing up.”
If eating earlier or downsizing meals leads to fewer coughing spells, that’s another sign reflux may be behind it.
4. See if your cough changes at night
A cough that wakes you up or hits first thing in the morning is often linked to reflux.
“Try elevating the head of your bed by six to eight inches,” says Dr. Shariff. “That keeps acid in the stomach where it belongs while you sleep.”
If propping yourself up helps you sleep without coughing — or eases that morning throat irritation — reflux is a likely trigger.
5. Take note of lifestyle patterns that worsen coughing
Everyday habits can quietly make reflux worse.
“Losing even a small amount of weight can significantly reduce reflux symptoms,” says Dr. Shariff. “Avoiding alcohol and quitting smoking are among the best things you can do for both your reflux and your overall health.”
When lifestyle changes ease your cough along with other reflux symptoms, it’s another strong hint that acid reflux is the cause.
> Related: Hoarse Voice? Silent Reflux May Be the Cause
6. See how your cough responds to reflux treatment
Sometimes, the way your cough responds to treatment offers the clearest answer.
“But if you’re relying on them frequently, it’s time to talk with your doctor,” says Dr. Shariff. “You want to be sure you’re treating the underlying cause, not just the symptoms.”
If your cough eases after a few weeks of reflux treatment, acid reflux is likely playing a role. But if the cough keeps coming back or never improves, it’s a sign you need a closer look to figure out what’s really going on.
> Related: How to Choose the Right Acid Reflux Medication
Here’s when it’s time to see your doctor
If your cough lasts longer than a few weeks, keeps you up at night, or comes with symptoms like chest pain, wheezing, or trouble swallowing, don’t ignore it.
“Chronic coughs aren’t always caused by reflux,” says Dr. Shariff. “Your doctor can help identify what’s really going on and recommend a treatment plan that gets you lasting relief.”
Because sometimes, getting rid of that cough starts with treating your stomach.