Patient Information & Education
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Acid Reflux
Affecting the Throat

While there are many potential causes of throat and voice problems, one of the most common is acid reflux from the stomach. When the acid refluxes (moves out of the stomach upward toward the nose and throat) to the level of the voice box and/or nose, this is known as "laryngopharyngeal reflux disease" (or LPRD). Some of the symptoms can include the sensation of post-nasal drainage, difficulty swallowing, throat "spasms," the need to clear the throat, a burning feeling in the throat, or a sensation that something is stuck in the throat. Patients may also have hoarseness, a chronic cough, or other complaints related to the throat. In children, LPR can sometimes contribute to ear infections, sinus problems, and asthma. It is important to note that patients with this disorder often do NOT have other symptoms of acid reflux disease, such as "heartburn" or indigestion.

After obtaining a history from the patient, the physician may recommend a fiberoptic exam of the throat and larynx (voicebox), which is usually performed in the office. This is done to confirm the diagnosis and exclude other disorders that may cause similar symptoms.

Treatment of LPRD often depends on altering the factors that can contribute to it, as well as medications to reduce acid production. These medications can be used once a day or twice a day, depending on the doctor's recommendations. It is important to follow the recommendations of the physician when using these medications.

How to Help Reduce Symptoms

• Avoid or reduce the intake of foods that aggravate symptoms. These include fatty foods, chocolate, mints, alcoholic beverages, carbonated beverages, and caffeinated drinks (such as coffee, tea, and colas)
  
• Avoid lying down for 2 hours after eating and eat smaller meals.
  
• Stop smoking since nicotine increases acid production. Chemicals from smoke also irritate the throat.
  
• Wear clothing that is not tight, as tight clothing can increase pressure on the abdominal area.
  
• Try to maintain an ideal weight because extra weight increases pressure on the stomach, leading to an increase in symptoms.
  
• Drinks 4-6 glasses of water daily.
  
• Avoid "clearing the throat." Instead, take a small sip of water to reduce this urge. It may take several days to weeks, but eventually this habit can be broken.

It may take several weeks or months to notice the benefits of the prescribed medicine, and making the above lifestyle changes. LPRD may improve within a few days in some patients, but others only get better after several months of treatment.