In asthmatic subjects with gastro-oesophageal reflux, (but who were not recruited specifically on the basis of reflux-associated respiratory symptoms), there was no overall improvement in asthma following treatment for gastro-oesophageal reflux. Subgroups of patients may gain benefit, but it appears difficult to predict responders.
Effect of conservative treatment of oesophageal dysfunction on bronchial asthma.
Sixty-two patients with both bronchial asthma and oesophageal dysfunction (OD) were randomized into an OD treatment group and a control group. Patients in the treatment group were given advice and medication for their OD. No changes were made in their existing asthma therapy. Patients in the control group were told that there was a suspicion of OD which should be rechecked in 2 months. After 2 months the patients of the treatment group reported alleviation of their oesophageal and bronchial symptoms significantly more frequently than patients of the control group. Fewer signs of OD were found after treatment than before. Lung function tests did not differ between the group treated for 2 months and the control group but there was a significant reduction in consumption of beta-adrenergic stimulating drugs in the treatment group compared with the control group. In conclusion, treatment of OD improves not only oesophageal symptoms but also respiratory symptoms in asthmatic patients. OD should therefore be looked for in patients with bronchial asthma and treated whenever found.