Laryngopharyngeal Reflux

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What is it?

This is a condition where the stomach contents reflux back into the throat (larynx and pharynx) causing some symptoms. This is often due to the weakness in either the upper or lower oesophageal sphincter. Any age group can be affected. It is commonest in people who are overweight and singers but may occur even in slim people and children too.

Causes

• Hiatus Hernia
• Overweight   
  
• Diet rich in acid
• Infection
  

Symptoms

• Throat clearing
• Dry cough, throat irritation or ticklish
• Coughing or choking at night
• Hoarseness
• Sensation of lump in the throat
• Sore throat
• Weakness or tiring of the voice
  

Diagnosis

The diagnosis is made by history taking and fibre optic endoscopy of the larynx.

Treatment

Dietary advice. Reduce greasy foods, caffeine, fizzy drinks, acidic food, white wine, alcohol intake, dairy foods, etc.
Medical treatment.
Antireflux medication. These are medication that suppresses stomach acid and prevent acid refluxing back up into the larynx.
Surgery.
Vocal cord granuloma due to reflux might require surgical removal. In cases due to large hiatus hernia a surgery call fundoplication might be required.