Had achalasia for 30 yrs coped with symptoms well. Why suddenly am I getting tickly cough that disturbs my sleep?

[Nellie-1928]

Lots of stress recently though still managing to eat ok

[TiggerB]

I was treated for my achalasia getting on for 10 years ago. A while ago I developed a reflux cough, still have it but its got a bit better now I'm on lansoprazole. Do you think your's could be related to reflux when you lie down at night? Maybe speak to your GP about it? Good luck getting it sorted.

[Hidden]

The stress level might affect the reflux, and achalasia generally can be affected by stress I believe so it might be worth thinking about how your stress levels might be lowered? I know that this is easier said than done!

Do you get a sour taste in your mouth at night? This might be an indication of reflux (water brash?).

The situation may depend on whether you have had surgery; and whether the sphincter between your oesophagus and stomach clamps shut, or whether it tends to be slack and open.

Is it related to whether you have eaten certain sorts of food?

Lansoprozole and omeprazole are PPI medication - they switch off the production of stomach acid - and are commonly prescribed for this. It is good that you are coping well in the long term with the achalasia. Your GP can probably sort this out, but if not, it might be worth asking for a review by a specialist?

[Nellie-1928 in reply to Hidden]

Thanks for your reply Alan. I had the operation 30 yrs ago when diagnosed. The surgeon told me he had bypassed the dodgy muscle at the bottom my oesophagus. After 3 yrs I was discharged from my consultant. Seems daft but only discovered through this site that achalasia cannot be fully cured. Just thought because I had a stomach operation this was why I struggled eating sometimes. Can't believe after all this time I only just finding out about my condition. Plus some very helpful tips. I realise I am one of the luckier patients . Have learnt to cope very well.

[chris_usa]

Likely due to irritation of the larynx or pharynx from refluxed food retained in the esophagus. Are you raising the head of the bed at night? This could help, as well as making sure that you stay upright for at least two hours after supper. If these do not help, then certainly a visit to the gastroenterologist is in order. PPIs (as mentioned in other posts) may help, but in achalasia food can be trapped in the esophagus and ferment which causes chest pain or discomfort. PPIs will not help this, but can help if the problem is due to reflux of matter from the stomach into the esophagus.

[Nellie-1928 in reply to chris_usa]

Thanks for advice I have made an appointment to see my GP.