Doctors conduct a complete case history and review the individual′s symptoms to diagnose and evaluate GERD and an accompanying chronic cough. Its more difficult to diagnose a chronic cough in those who don′t have heartburn but have LPR.

The most effective technique to diagnose GERD is pH monitoring. However, this test is utilized less frequently than a diagnosis based on symptoms and a case history.

During the 24-hour pH test, a probe is inserted through the nose into the food pipe to measure esophageal pH values. 

Another test available to diagnose GERD and cough is the Bravo esophageal pH test. During an endoscopy, a small capsule is put in the food pipe for a set period of time.

Many a times doctors might prescribe PPIs, used for treating GERD. If the cough symptoms improve during this time, it could be a sign that the cough caused was due to acid reflux.

Further, a relationship has been seen between obstructive sleep apnea and chronic cough. Treatment with continuous positive airway pressure may help with chronic cough by reducing GERD; hence, evaluating instances of obstructive sleep apnea could also serve as another technique to diagnose GERD-related cough.

If normal peristalsis is confirmed on manometry, surgery may be considered in individuals with GERD-related chronic cough who have aberrant esophageal acid exposure (as shown by pH testing).^1,2

Source:

1. What′s the connection between acid reflux and coughing? Medicalnewstoday.  Available from: https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/315888. Accessed May 6, 2022.
2. Michaudet C, Malaty J. Chronic cough: evaluation and management. Am Fam Physician. 2017;96(9):575-80.