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Throat Reflux
What is Throat Reflux?
Throat Reflux Symptoms
Causes of Throat Reflux

Symptoms of Throat Reflux

Creator: Op. Dr. Özgür Gülten
Published: 2024-04-24T17:51:49+03:00

Throat Reflux

Throat reflux occurs when stomach acid rises from the esophagus and irritates the throat and larynx. Medically referred to as laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR), this condition typically presents with symptoms such as hoarseness, chronic cough, and a sensation of something stuck in the throat. Since classic reflux symptoms like heartburn may not be present, it is also called "silent reflux" and can be difficult to diagnose.

What is Throat Reflux?

Throat reflux occurs when stomach contents (acid, undigested food, bile) flow upward from the esophagus to reach the throat and larynx. Normally, a ring of muscle called the lower esophageal sphincter, located between the esophagus and the stomach, prevents stomach contents from flowing back into the esophagus. However, if this sphincter weakens or malfunctions, stomach contents can move upward, causing throat reflux.

Throat reflux is different from stomach reflux (gastroesophageal reflux). In stomach reflux, stomach contents rise only to the esophagus, whereas in throat reflux, they reach the throat and larynx.

A LifeHealth Group Touch: The ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialists at A Life Health Group use the latest methods to diagnose and treat throat reflux. Through detailed evaluation and advanced examinations, the cause and severity of reflux are determined, and a personalized treatment plan is created.

Throat Reflux Symptoms

Throat reflux can cause a variety of symptoms. The most common symptoms are:

Hoarseness: Stomach acid can irritate the vocal cords, causing hoarseness. This is the most common symptom of throat reflux.
Chronic Cough: Irritation in the throat can lead to a chronic cough. The cough may be worse in the mornings or after meals.
Sensation of a Lump in the Throat: A feeling that something is stuck in the throat or difficulty swallowing may occur.
Burning or Pain in the Throat: Stomach acid can cause a burning sensation or pain in the throat.
Frequent Throat Clearing: Throat irritation can lead to the need to clear the throat frequently.
Excess Mucus or Phlegm: Irritation in the throat may increase mucus production, resulting in phlegm.
Postnasal Drip: Stomach acid can cause postnasal drip.
Ear Pain: In rare cases, throat reflux can cause ear pain.

A Life Health Group Touch: If you notice symptoms of throat reflux, it is important to consult the experienced ENT specialists at A Life Health Group without delay. Early diagnosis and treatment reduce the risk of complications and improve your quality of life.

Causes of Throat Reflux

Factors that cause throat reflux include:

Weakening of the lower esophageal sphincter: This sphincter prevents stomach contents from flowing back into the esophagus. When it weakens or does not function properly, stomach contents can flow upward, causing throat reflux.
Hiatal hernia: A condition in which part of the stomach rises above the diaphragm. Hiatal hernia can weaken the lower esophageal sphincter and lead to throat reflux.
High stomach pressure: Factors such as obesity, pregnancy, and overeating can increase stomach pressure, raising the risk of throat reflux.
Certain foods and beverages: Fatty foods, spicy foods, acidic drinks, coffee, and alcohol can trigger throat reflux symptoms.Smoking: Smoking weakens the lower esophageal sphincter and increases the risk of throat reflux.
Certain medications: Some medications can relax the lower esophageal sphincter and increase the risk of throat reflux.

A Life Health Group Touch: At A Life Health Group, a detailed evaluation is conducted to determine the underlying cause of throat reflux. This evaluation includes taking the patient’s medical history, physical examination, and, if necessary, advanced tests such as endoscopy, biopsy, and 24-hour pH monitoring.

Diagnosis of Throat Reflux

The diagnosis of throat reflux is made based on the patient’s symptoms, physical examination findings, and, if necessary, the following tests:

Endoscopy: A procedure in which a thin, flexible tube with a camera is inserted through the mouth into the esophagus and stomach. Endoscopy allows visualization of the inner surfaces of the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum and helps check for any damage.
Biopsy: Small tissue samples are taken from suspicious areas during endoscopy and examined under a microscope.
24-hour pH monitoring: A thin tube is placed in the esophagus, and the acid level in the esophagus is measured for 24 hours. This test helps determine the severity and frequency of reflux.
Impedance-pH monitoring: This test measures both acid and non-acid reflux. It is a more sensitive method than 24-hour pH monitoring for diagnosing throat reflux.
Laryngoscopy: A procedure to examine the throat and larynx. Laryngoscopy allows checking for reflux-related damage on the vocal cords and larynx.

A Life Health Group Touch: At A Life Health Group, all necessary tests for diagnosing throat reflux are performed quickly and reliably in our advanced endoscopy unit. Our experienced gastroenterology specialists evaluate the test results and provide you with detailed information.

How to Treat Throat Reflux?

The treatment of throat reflux varies depending on the severity and cause of the condition. The main goals of treatment are to relieve symptoms, control reflux, and prevent complications.

Methods used in the treatment of throat reflux include:

Lifestyle changes: Weight loss, quitting smoking, reducing alcohol and caffeine consumption, avoiding fatty and spicy foods, and not lying down immediately after meals can help reduce reflux.
Medication: Drugs that reduce stomach acid (proton pump inhibitors, H2 receptor antagonists) can help control reflux and reduce throat irritation.
Voice therapy: For patients with hoarseness, voice therapy may be applied to protect the vocal cords and improve voice quality.
Surgery: In rare cases, surgical intervention may be required to strengthen the lower esophageal sphincter.

A Life Health Group Touch: Gastroenterology specialists at A Life Health Group use the most effective and up-to-date medications and treatment methods for throat reflux. The treatment plan is personalized according to the patient’s specific needs and monitored through regular check-ups.

Home Treatment for Throat Reflux

Lifestyle changes play an important role in the treatment of throat reflux. Some methods you can apply at home may help relieve symptoms and control reflux:

Lose weight: Excess weight increases stomach pressure, raising the risk of reflux. Losing weight can help reduce reflux symptoms.
Quit smoking: Smoking weakens the lower esophageal sphincter and increases the risk of reflux.
Reduce alcohol and caffeine consumption: Alcohol and caffeine can increase stomach acid and trigger reflux symptoms.
Avoid fatty and spicy foods: These foods can increase stomach acid and worsen reflux symptoms.
Eat small, frequent meals: Large meals increase stomach pressure and the risk of reflux. Eating smaller, frequent meals can help reduce reflux.
Do not lie down immediately after meals: Staying upright for at least 2-3 hours after eating helps prevent stomach contents from flowing back into the esophagus.
Sleep with a raised pillow: Elevating your head while sleeping can help reduce reflux.
Chew gum: Chewing gum increases saliva production, which helps neutralize stomach acid.

A Life Health Group Touch: While home methods can help relieve symptoms, remember that you should consult a specialist for proper throat reflux treatment. A Life Health Group provides accurate and reliable information about throat reflux and offers the most suitable treatment for you.

Throat Reflux Medications

Medications used in the treatment of throat reflux are generally those that reduce stomach acid. These medications include:

Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs): Drugs such as omeprazole, lansoprazole, and pantoprazole block the pumps that produce stomach acid, thereby reducing acid levels.
H2 receptor antagonists: Medications like ranitidine and famotidine block histamine receptors in the stomach, reducing acid production.
Antacids: Drugs such as calcium carbonate and magnesium hydroxide neutralize stomach acid and relieve symptoms.
Prokinetic agents: Medications like metoclopramide and domperidone accelerate stomach emptying, helping to reduce reflux.

A Life Health Group Touch: A Life Health Group’s gastroenterology specialists prescribe the most effective and up-to-date medications for throat reflux treatment. Medication plans are personalized according to the patient’s specific needs, and potential side effects are closely monitored.

Throat Reflux Diet

Avoiding foods and beverages that trigger throat reflux symptoms is an important part of treatment. Key considerations in a throat reflux diet include:

Avoid fatty foods: Fried foods, fatty meats, and creamy sauces can slow stomach emptying and increase reflux risk.
Avoid spicy foods: Spices like chili, black pepper, and curry can increase stomach acid and trigger reflux symptoms.
Avoid acidic beverages: Carbonated drinks, fruit juices, coffee, and tea can increase stomach acid and worsen reflux symptoms.
Limit chocolate and mint consumption: Chocolate and mint may relax the lower esophageal sphincter and increase reflux risk.
Reduce alcohol consumption: Alcohol can increase stomach acid and trigger reflux symptoms.
Avoid tomatoes and tomato products: Tomatoes are acidic and can worsen reflux symptoms.
Limit onion and garlic intake: Onion and garlic can increase stomach acid and trigger reflux symptoms.

A Life Health Group Touch: Experienced dietitians at A Life Health Group prepare personalized nutrition plans for individuals with throat reflux. These plans are customized according to the patient’s needs and preferences and help reduce reflux symptoms.

What Helps Throat Reflux?

Throat reflux (laryngopharyngeal reflux - LPR) occurs when stomach acid flows back up from the esophagus into the throat and even the larynx. This can cause quite uncomfortable symptoms. Lifestyle changes, dietary adjustments, and some natural methods can help relieve throat reflux. Here are some suggestions that may be beneficial:

Lifestyle Changes:

Sleeping Position:
- Elevating the head of the bed by 15–20 cm makes it harder for stomach acid to rise.
- It is also important to stop eating at least 3 hours before bedtime.
Weight Control:
- Excess weight can put pressure on the stomach and trigger reflux.
- Maintaining a healthy weight may help reduce reflux symptoms.
Stress Management:
- Stress can increase stomach acid production.
- Techniques such as yoga, meditation, or deep breathing exercises can be applied.
Smoking and Alcohol:
- Smoking and alcohol increase stomach acid and worsen reflux.
- Avoiding these habits is important.
Tight Clothing:
- Tight belts and clothes can increase intra-abdominal pressure and trigger reflux.

Dietary Adjustments:

Avoid Trigger Foods:
- Stay away from fatty and fried foods, spicy foods, citrus fruits, tomatoes, chocolate, coffee, mint, and carbonated beverages.
Small and Frequent Meals:
- Eating small, frequent meals instead of large ones can help balance stomach acid production.
Fiber-Rich Foods:
- Fiber-rich foods help regulate digestion and reduce reflux symptoms.
- Foods like oats, broccoli, and carrots can be consumed.
Fluid Consumption:
- Drinking too much liquid during meals can fill the stomach and trigger reflux.
- It is better to drink fluids between meals.

Natural Methods:

Ginger:
- Ginger has a soothing effect on the stomach.
- Fresh ginger tea or ginger-containing foods can be consumed.
Aloe Vera Juice:
- Aloe vera juice may help reduce irritation in the throat.
- However, it is important to consult a doctor before consuming aloe vera juice.
Chamomile Tea:
- Chamomile tea can help relieve reflux symptoms with its calming effect.

Important Note:

These suggestions may help alleviate reflux symptoms but do not replace a doctor.
If your symptoms are severe or persistent, it is essential to consult a doctor.
Your doctor can recommend appropriate medication or other treatment options.

Throat Reflux and Hoarseness

Throat reflux is one of the most common factors causing hoarseness. Stomach acid irritates the vocal cords, leading to hoarseness, voice breaks, and vocal fatigue. Hoarseness can be a serious problem, especially for people who use their voices intensively such as singers, teachers, and broadcasters.

A Life Health Group Touch: The ENT specialists at A Life Health Group use methods such as medication, voice therapy, and lifestyle changes in the treatment of hoarseness caused by throat reflux. A personalized treatment plan is created to protect the health of your vocal cords and improve your voice quality.

Throat Reflux and Cough

Throat reflux is a common factor that causes chronic cough. Stomach acid can irritate the throat and trigger the cough reflex. Coughing may be more severe especially in the mornings or after meals. Cough due to throat reflux can be mistaken for other respiratory diseases such as asthma or bronchitis.

A Life Health Group Touch: The ENT specialists of A Life Health Group perform a detailed evaluation to determine the cause of the cough. If the cough is due to throat reflux, treating the reflux will also eliminate the cough.

Additional Information About Throat Reflux:

Throat reflux can affect people of all ages: Although it is more common in adults, children can also develop throat reflux.
Untreated throat reflux can lead to serious complications: Complications such as vocal cord nodules, laryngeal cancer, esophageal stricture, and aspiration pneumonia may develop.
Lifestyle changes play an important role in the prevention and treatment of throat reflux: Eating healthy, losing weight, quitting smoking, and managing stress reduce the risk of reflux.

Throat Reflux at A Life

A Life Health Group is a healthcare institution specialized in the diagnosis and treatment of throat reflux. Our experienced ENT specialists, gastroenterologists, and dietitians aim to provide you with the best care using the latest technologies and treatment methods.

At A Life Health Group, the services we offer for throat reflux include:

Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT): Diagnosis and treatment of throat reflux, hoarseness, chronic cough, and other ENT problems
Gastroenterology: Diagnosis and treatment of reflux, gastritis, ulcers, and other digestive system diseases
Endoscopy unit: Diagnostic and therapeutic endoscopic procedures with advanced technological equipment
Laboratory services: Blood tests, allergy tests, and other laboratory examinations
Diet and nutrition counseling: Guidance on avoiding foods that trigger throat reflux and maintaining a healthy diet
Voice therapy: Voice therapy for patients with hoarseness
Education and counseling: Information on throat reflux, its causes, symptoms, treatment, and prevention

At A Life Health Group, our priority in the treatment of throat reflux is restoring our patients’ health and improving their quality of life. Our expert team is ready to provide you with the best care with a friendly service approach.

Remember, throat reflux is a treatable condition. With early diagnosis and proper treatment, you can overcome throat reflux and achieve a healthier life.

Frequently Asked Questions About Throat Reflux

Does Throat Reflux Cause Itching in the Throat?

Yes, throat reflux can cause itching in the throat. Throat reflux occurs when stomach acid travels back up through the esophagus and reaches the throat and larynx. This leads to irritation and inflammation, which can trigger an itching sensation.

Reasons why throat reflux causes throat itching:

Acid irritation: Stomach acid irritates the delicate tissues of the throat, leading to itching.
Inflammation: Acid reflux can cause inflammation in the throat, which contributes to the itching sensation.
Dryness: Throat reflux may also cause dryness, worsening the feeling of irritation and itchiness.

Other symptoms that may accompany throat itching due to reflux:

Constant need to clear the throat
Hoarseness
Chronic cough
Lump-in-the-throat sensation
Difficulty swallowing
Throat pain

If you experience throat itching along with other reflux-related symptoms, it is important to consult a doctor. Your physician can make the correct diagnosis and recommend the most appropriate treatment options.

Does Throat Reflux Cause a Lump-in-the-Throat Sensation?

Yes, throat reflux can cause a sensation of something being stuck in the throat. Throat reflux occurs when stomach acid flows back up the esophagus and reaches the throat and larynx. This can lead to irritation, inflammation, and swelling, resulting in a lump-in-the-throat feeling.

Reasons why throat reflux may cause this sensation:

Acid irritation and inflammation: Stomach acid irritates the sensitive tissues of the throat, causing inflammation and swelling, which may create the sensation of something stuck.
Throat muscle spasms: Acid reflux can trigger spasms in the throat muscles, leading to tightness or a stuck feeling.
Edema (swelling): The backflow of stomach acid can cause swelling in throat tissues, producing a foreign body sensation.

Is Frequent Belching a Symptom of Throat Reflux?

Yes, frequent belching can be a symptom of throat reflux (laryngopharyngeal reflux – LPR). In throat reflux, stomach acid flows back up the esophagus to the throat and larynx. This can cause discomfort not only in the throat but also in the stomach and esophagus. Frequent belching may occur as a result of stomach acid moving upward.

Reasons frequent belching may be related to throat reflux:

Air swallowing (aerophagia): Reflux patients may swallow air frequently to relieve discomfort, which leads to belching. The reflux itself can also cause air swallowing.
Stomach pressure: The upward movement of stomach acid can increase stomach pressure, triggering belching. Delayed gastric emptying can also intensify belching.

If frequent belching occurs along with these symptoms, throat reflux is more likely:

Hoarseness
Chronic cough
Lump-in-the-throat sensation
Sore throat
Frequent throat clearing

Important note: Frequent belching alone is not a definitive sign of throat reflux. It can also be caused by other factors, such as:

Eating or drinking too quickly
Consuming carbonated beverages
Certain gastrointestinal conditions

Is a Burning Sensation in the Throat a Symptom of Throat Reflux?

Yes, a burning sensation in the throat is a common symptom of throat reflux (laryngopharyngeal reflux – LPR). In throat reflux, stomach acid rises from the esophagus to the throat and larynx. This can irritate the sensitive tissues in the throat, causing a burning feeling.

Other symptoms of throat reflux include:

Hoarseness
Chronic cough
Lump or foreign body sensation in the throat
Frequent throat clearing
Difficulty swallowing
Postnasal drip

Important note: A burning sensation alone is not sufficient for a definitive diagnosis of throat reflux. Other possible causes of throat burning include: