A 45-year-old male presents with chronic dry cough and a hoarse voice. He denies any heartburn but mentions he often feels as if food gets stuck in his throat after meals. He also reports a history of asthma. What could be the potential diagnosis, and what are the next steps?
Even though this patient does not have classic symptoms of heartburn, the presence of chronic cough, hoarseness, and sensation of food getting stuck post meals can still be suggestive of GERD. These are examples of atypical or extra-esophageal manifestations of GERD. Given the patient's history of asthma, GERD could also potentially be exacerbating his respiratory condition. Empirical treatment with a proton pump inhibitor (PPI) can be considered. If the symptoms persist, further diagnostic tests like endoscopy or ambulatory acid (pH) probe tests may be necessary.