Acid reflux happens when the muscles at the bottom of your esophagus open at the wrong time, sending stomach acid back into the esophagus. Common symptoms of acid reflux include:
- Heartburn
- Food or sour liquid backwash
- Trouble swallowing
- The feeling of a lump in the throat
- Cough
While these are the most common symptoms of regular acid reflux, a lesser-known form, called laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR), can result in throat symptoms like sore throat, hoarseness, laryngitis and chronic throat clearing.
How Does Laryngopharyngeal Reflux Cause Throat Symptoms
Regular acid reflux doesn’t usually make its way to the throat. With LPR, the stomach acid rises into the throat, causing irritation and soreness.
How Can I Manage LPR?
The severity of your LPR will guide treatment. In many cases, you can manage it with diet and lifestyle changes, including but not limited to:
- Reduce alcohol intake
- Quit smoking
- Eat smaller meals
- Eat at least three hours before going to bed or lying down
- Cut out or limit spicy or acidic foods
- Limit carbonated beverages that lead to excessive burping
- Sleep on your left side with your head slightly elevated
- Wear loose-fitting clothing
If lifestyle changes alone can’t manage your LPR, your ENT specialist may recommend one or both of the following:
- Medication. Antacids are a common short-term acid reflux solution. If lifestyle changes and antacids don’t provide sufficient relief, your ENT specialist may recommend medications to reduce acid production, like proton pump inhibitors or H2 blockers.
- Surgery. Most cases of LPR don’t require surgery unless there is a physical issue affecting the opening and closing of the esophageal sphincter muscles (responsible for controlling the flow of food and acid). If there is an issue with the esophageal sphincter muscle, your ENT specialist may recommend a Nissen fundoplication to tighten the junction between the esophagus and stomach.
How Can I Take Care of My Sore Throat?
In addition to managing your LPR, try these voice care practices:
- Don’t overuse your voice. Heading to Mics Karaoke to belt out your favorite song is a fun way to spend your evening, but it might not be best for your voice. If your throat is sore, use your voice as little as possible and only at a low volume. But try not to whisper, as that can also damage your voice.
- Drink plenty of fluids. Drink lots of water, fruit juice and herbal tea with lemon and honey to keep your throat hydrated and soothe irritation.
If you’re dealing with chronic acid reflux or throat irritation, contact ENT of Georgia North to schedule an appointment with one of our specialists.
