Throat Reflux
THROAT / THROAT REFLUX
Assessment of throat clearing, a lump in the throat feeling, hoarseness and chronic cough caused by acid reflux, with consultant ENT surgeon Dr Nurhani Yasmin Abdul Rahman at Kemena Pacific Hospital.
What is throat reflux?
Throat reflux, also called laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR), happens when stomach contents travel up into the throat and voice box. Unlike typical acid reflux, many people do not feel heartburn. Instead they notice throat symptoms that last for weeks or months.
Symptoms
- Frequent throat clearing
- A lump in the throat feeling
- Hoarseness or a croaky voice, often worse in the morning
- Chronic cough
- Mucus sticking in the throat
- Mild difficulty swallowing
Common triggers
- Large or late night meals
- Spicy, fatty or fried food
- Coffee, tea, fizzy drinks and alcohol
- Smoking
- Excess weight
- Stress
How Dr Yasmin assesses and treats throat reflux
Dr Yasmin examines the throat and voice box with a small camera in clinic to look for signs of reflux and rule out other causes. Treatment usually combines diet and lifestyle changes with medicine to reduce acid. Most people improve over 8 to 12 weeks. Ongoing symptoms may need further tests.
When to see an ENT specialist
- Throat symptoms lasting more than three weeks
- Hoarseness that does not improve
- Chronic cough without a clear cause
- Difficulty or pain when swallowing
- Weight loss or coughing up blood: see a doctor promptly
FAQs
Can I have reflux without heartburn?
Yes. Throat reflux often causes throat symptoms without any heartburn.
How long does treatment take?
Most people notice improvement within 8 to 12 weeks of lifestyle changes and medicine.
Is the lump in my throat dangerous?
Usually not, but persistent symptoms should be examined to rule out other causes.