Reflux Management
A common symptom complex of hoarseness, a "lump in the throat", frequent throat-clearing, chronic cough, and a sensation of drainage can often be related to reflux, better known in our practice as laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR).
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| LPR (what patients often call heartburn) is characterized by a burning sensation that radiates up from the stomach to the chest and throat. Nearly three-quarters of patients with frequent symptoms experience them at night. Photo courtesy of: DAVID MACK / SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY |
LPR is caused by a weakness of the upper esophageal sphincter which allows acidic stomach contents to invade and damage the delicate tissues of the larynx and upper throat. This condition can be easily diagnosed in our office by using a thin fiberoptic camera using topical anesthesia to thoroughly evaluate the voice box and upper throat.
Most patients with LPR respond favorably to a combination of lifestyle changes and anti-reflux medication, which can be prescribed by Midwest Medical Specialists' physicians. Occasionally, referral to a gastroenterologist, and rarely, surgery, is recommended for this condition.
