Medical Services

Laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR) is a medical disorder whereby stomach acid rises the oesophagus and reaches the larynx (voice box) and pharynx (throat). LPR is more difficult to identify than usual acid reflux or gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GERD), since LPR often strikes without the traditional heartburn sign.
LPR commonly causes hoarseness, frequent throat clearing, a sensation of a lump in the throat, sore throat, and voice fatigue. Sometimes people also have trouble breathing or swallowing, particularly at night.
Many times, lifestyle choices such as a high-fat diet, coffee, alcohol, smoking, obesity, or late-night eating set LPR off. Usually, the diagnosis is based on the symptoms, a laryngoscopic study, and occasionally pH monitoring to identify acid exposure in the throat.
The treatment centres on lifestyle changes, including food adjustments, weight control, and head elevation while sleeping. Prescriptions for drugs, including antacids, H2 blockers, or proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), could also help to lower acid generation.
Most individuals find notable improvements from symptoms with suitable therapy and long-term lifestyle changes. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial to stop long-term damage to throat tissue and the voice cords.