Laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR), also known as silent reflux, results from the stomach backing up. In children, symptoms include hoarseness, trouble gaining weight, trouble feeding, chronic cough, etc. However, in adults, symptoms include complaints of frequent postnasal drainage, frequent throat clearing, trouble swallowing, hoarseness and feeling like something is stuck in their throat. Occasionally patients complain of a sore throat. While some patients may have some traditional heartburn symptoms (heartburn, belching, indigestion etc.), most patients with LPR do not have these symptoms. Treatment usually include dietary modfications such as avoiding big meals right before going to bedtime, limiting caffeine intake, limiting chocolate intake, avoiding spicy foods, avoiding carbonated beverages, etc. Alcohol also can exacerbate this as well. Also typically treat this with proton pump inhibitors (PPI)such as prilosec, prevacid, nexium, etc. Can treat with H2 blockers such as pepcid or zantac, however they typically are not as effective as PPI are. Patients typically have to take PPI or H2 blockers for 3-4 weeks before they notice improvement.
Call Waco Ear, Nose & Throat at (254) 776-7744 for more information or to schedule an appointment.
