You have just eaten a nice meal and find yourself coughing, as if there is no tomorrow. Coughing increases, even though you ate very normally and "did not feel bad" in the stomach, no portion of food. While this may be annoying, it is generally quite normal, but, as with everything else, when it is overcome - and the cough becomes constant, there is probably a problem.

"Coughing is generally the body's way of clearing the airways and 'usually caused by a irritant in the throat or lower respiratory tract,'" explains Youngnan Jenny Cho, an assistant professor of otolaryngology. "Your throat closes for a moment. "Air pressure builds up in the chest. Then, as the larynx opens, an air blast flies out, carrying any mucus or irritant with it. Believe it or not, a strong cough can create a 70 mph wind."

But if, coughing happens every time you eat, it could be due to stomach reflux. This reflux irritates the pharynx and larynx.

When reflux is more severe, then it is known as GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease). This digestive disorder is most often associated with "a feeling of pressure or burning behind the chest and a sour taste in the mouth. Other symptoms of GERD may include chronic sore throat and excessive mucus. Studies show that at least 25% of cases of Chronic cough - are associated with GERD.

Untreated reflux can be quite serious. Beyond the annoying cough and heartburn, it can fall into the lungs and cause chronic bronchitis or pneumonia, says Dr. Schnoll-Sussman.

What to do with cough after you have eaten

If your cough is a new symptom, if it is persistent or worsens, check with your doctor. 

Fortunately, if reflux is the main cause, there are relatively easy steps you can take. Eat more slowly and do not consume foods that are difficult to digest late at night, before going to bed. Also, after you have lifted, do not lie down directly. Staying sitting or standing for at least one to two hours after a meal can help you a lot with better digestion and reflux.

Food types also affect reflux. Avoiding tomato-based products, or drinks like cola can cause a kind of "scratch" in the throat, which irritates it and causes coughing. 

Source: Men's Health