Many Americans suffer from acid reflux every year. It occurs when stomach acid travels up into your esophagus and often causes the telltale symptom of heartburn. If you experience acid reflux more than a couple of times a week, you likely have a chronic condition known as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).
However, some people with acid reflux don’t experience heartburn as a symptom. Instead, they have chronic coughs or sore throats. This is referred to as laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR).
Let’s examine the similarities and differences between GERD and LPR, as well as some potential treatment options.
GERD Symptoms
As mentioned, heartburn is one of the most common symptoms of GERD. Heartburn may feel like:
- A burning sensation in the chest lasting several hours
- Chest pain, especially when lying down or bending over
- Burning feeling in your throat
- Trouble swallowing
- Bad or sour taste in your mouth and the back of your throat
LPR Symptoms
For patients with LPR, heartburn is uncommon, leading the condition to often be referred to as silent reflux. Instead, sufferers may experience the following:
- Chronic cough
- Sore throat
- Difficulty swallowing
- Postnasal drip
- Hoarseness
What Causes GERD and LPR?
Both GERD and LPR are caused by the top of your esophagus not closing correctly and allowing stomach acid to travel upwards. In GERD, stomach acid travels to your esophagus, causing burning sensations. In LPR, stomach acid travels up to the back of the throat, which is why symptoms are felt there.
It is also possible for people to have both GERD and LPR.
Treatment Options
Because both conditions have the same cause, treatment options are similar as well. If you’re having symptoms of either condition, make an appointment with your doctor. Oftentimes, a medical history will be enough to make a diagnosis. However, in some cases, testing is done to check for scarring in the esophagus or throat.
Treatment options may include:
- Dietary changes. Certain foods can trigger GERD and LPR symptoms. Your doctor will recommend which foods to avoid and which to add to your cart the next time you’re at 3 Rivers Food Co-op Natural Grocery & Deli.
- Other lifestyle adjustments. Cutting back on caffeine and alcohol, getting regular exercise, eating smaller meals and sleeping with the head of your bed elevated all may help reduce reflux.
- Medications. Whether OTC or prescription strength, your doctor may recommend antacids, H2 receptor blockers or proton pump inhibitors to manage symptoms.
- Surgery. In cases where medication does not improve symptoms, surgery may be recommended to strengthen your esophageal sphincter and prevent reflux.
For more information or to schedule an appointment, contact Ear, Nose & Throat Associates today.