Laryngopharyngeal reflux

Laryngopharyngeal Reflux, or LPR, is the medical term for gastric reflux. This happens when food and acid from the stomach and upper digestive tract reflux – or flow backward – all the way up into the back of the throat, and sometimes even into the back of the nasal airway.

Gastric reflux affects people of all ages, from newborn babies to adults. In babies and children, gastric reflux can cause:

Cough
Hoarseness
Noisy breathing
Asthma
Spitting up
Choking
Breathing problems
Poor growth

Adults with gastric reflux sometimes notice:

A burning sensation or bitter taste in the back of their throat
A feeling like something is stuck in their throat
Hoarseness
Trouble swallowing or breathing

Many people with gastric reflux do not have heartburn.

Treatment

It is very important that people with gastric reflux be treated for it. If you think you might have it, see a doctor. Your doctor will examine you and prescribe medicine or order other tests to help diagnose your problem.

Many babies and young children outgrow gastric reflux as their bodies mature. Pregnant women who get gastric reflux usually notice that their symptoms go away once their baby is born. People who have gastric reflux sometimes can improve their symptoms by avoiding:

Chocolate
Peppermint
Citrus
Tomatoes
Fatty and fried foods
Spicy foods
Overeating
Caffeine
Carbonated drinks
Alcohol
Tobacco use

Other tips:

Stop eating and drinking 2-3 hours before you go to bed
Eat small meals
Eat slowly
Lose weight
Quit smoking
Wear loose clothing

Our Physicians

Rex ENT Specialists can help you get relief from gastric reflux. Dr. John A. Garside, M.D., specializes in caring for adults and children with ear, nose, and throat disorders. Visit Dr. Garside at our convenient location in Cary.