Laryngopharyngeal Reflux (LPR)
Understanding Laryngopharyngeal Reflux
Laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR), sometimes called, “silent reflux,” is a condition in which stomach contents (including acid and digestive enzymes) flow backward into the throat and voice box. This can irritate the sensitive tissues, causing chronic throat-clearing, hoarseness, cough, a lump-in-the-throat sensation, or difficulty swallowing. LPR can be effectively managed with treatment, however, reducing symptoms and protecting the throat and voice.
Common Symptoms
Patients with LPR may experience one or several of the following symptoms:
• Chronic cough or throat-clearing
• Hoarseness or changes in the voice
• Sore throat or a lump sensation in the throat
• Difficulty swallowing or postnasal drip
• Excess mucus in the throat
If these symptoms persist, it’s important to be evaluated by an ENT professional to assess the throat and vocal cords and recommend appropriate treatment.
Diagnosis and Treatment
LPR is diagnosed based on symptoms, medical history, and a throat and voice-box exam and may include reflux testing when symptoms persist or are unclear. Many patients with chronic throat issues are surprised by an LPR diagnosis, but the condition is a common cause of irritation, hoarseness, and throat-clearing — even without heartburn.
Treatment often includes:
• Lifestyle changes, such as avoiding late meals and sleeping with the head slightly elevated
• Dietary adjustments to limit reflux-triggering foods
• Medications to reduce stomach acid and allow the throat to heal
Unlike gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), which mainly affects the esophagus and causes heartburn, LPR primarily impacts the throat and voice box. Patients with esophageal symptoms or other concerns may be referred to a gastroenterologist for further evaluation.
With proper treatment, most patients experience significant symptom improvement and protection of the throat and voice. At Joplin ENT, our board-certified otolaryngologist provides expert evaluation and care to successfully manage LPR and improve quality of life. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and take the first step toward lasting relief.
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