LPR Reflux – What You Need to Know to Avoid the Discomfort

LPR Reflux What You Need to Know to Avoid the Discomfort

LPR (Laryngo-Pharyngeal Reflux) is a relatively common disorder not known to many people. It is characterized by the back-flow of gastric acids and some food particles up to the esophagus going to the larynx and pharynx or voice box. This disorder in some instances is not at all linked to eating and it may happen anytime of the day. A person who is having acid reflux or heartburn does not necessarily make him or her more susceptible to lpr reflux. The difference is that LPR goes all the way to the larynx and pharynx while acid reflux or heartburn only affects the lower part of the esophagus.

People who never suffered from heartburn before may suffer from lpr reflux. This is one of the most surprising facts about this disorder. The reason is that the food particles or stomach acids that refluxed do not stay in the esophagus. Therefore, they do not cause pain or discomfort at all similar to that of acid reflux or heartburn. Most of the refluxed particles and acids goes and ends up in the voice box or throat which are both known to be delicate or sensitive. In this case, serious damage could arise from lpr reflux.

The most apparent symptoms associated with lpr reflux are throat clearing, hoarseness and coughing. The majority of the people who suffer from this disorder identify the sensation of a constant obstruction like a lump in their throat. Moreover, the usual symptoms associated with acid reflux or heartburn may also be apparent. Another observation is chronic nasal drainage into the throat. This causes constant coughing and throat clearing. Individuals who have these symptoms should consult a doctor preferably an ear, nose and throat (ENT) or Otolaryngologist in order to have the symptoms addresses properly. Failure to have proper medical management and/or appropriate treatment, particularly among smokers, can lead to serious health problems such as throat cancer.

The ENT doctor usually does exams and other tests to identify and confirm the disorder. Barium swallow and 24-Hour Esophageal pH test are two of the most common procedures done. It is important for every patient to take these tests in order to receive proper treatment for the disorder. Cooperation with the doctor is necessary for every patient as well as patience as these tests require several hours to one day to complete.

There are several treatment options once a diagnosis has been made. Some patients may be asked to do some lifestyle modification such as giving up the smoking habit. There are also medical recommendations given to patients to decrease the stomach acid and to prevent the disorder from getting worse. In some cases, the patient may be advised to undergo surgery of the lower esophageal sphincter or LES to prevent the back-flow of gastric or stomach acids and food particles up into the esophagus.

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