Laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR) is a condition where acid from the stomach travels up to the throat and larynx. This reflux can cause irritation, inflammation, and damage to the throat and vocal cords.

Symptoms of LPR include hoarseness, throat clearing, coughing, difficulty swallowing, and a sensation of something stuck in the throat.

While LPR may be a common condition, it can also be a frustrating one that impacts your daily life. Thankfully, there are several ways to beat it! In this definitive guide, we will discuss the best tips and techniques for managing and treating LPR.

Tip 1: Lifestyle Changes

The first step in beating LPR is to make some lifestyle changes that can help reduce symptoms. These may include:.

Weight loss: Excess weight can increase pressure on the stomach, forcing acid up the esophagus.
Smoking cessation: Smoking can worsen symptoms of LPR and cause damage to the vocal cords.
Diet changes: Avoiding acidic, spicy, and fatty foods can help reduce reflux. Eating smaller, more frequent meals can also help.
Avoiding alcohol and caffeine: Both can relax the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), allowing acid to travel up to the throat.

By making these lifestyle changes, you can reduce the severity and frequency of LPR symptoms.

Tip 2: Positional Changes

The position in which you sleep or sit can also contribute to LPR symptoms. Try the following techniques:.

Elevate your head: Sleeping with your head elevated can help reduce reflux at night.
Stand up after eating: Waiting at least 2-3 hours after eating before lying down or reclining can help reduce symptoms.

By making these positional changes, you can help minimize reflux and improve your comfort.

Tip 3: Medications

Many medications can help reduce symptoms of LPR. These may include:.

Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs): These medications reduce acid production in the stomach, reducing reflux. Common PPIs include omeprazole (Prilosec) and esomeprazole (Nexium).
H2 blockers: These medications also reduce acid production, but are less potent than PPIs. Common H2 blockers include ranitidine (Zantac) and famotidine (Pepcid).
Antacids: These medications provide quick relief of symptoms by neutralizing stomach acid. Common antacids include Tums and Rolaids.
Prokinetics: These medications help improve stomach emptying, reducing reflux. Metoclopramide (Reglan) is a common prokinetic medication.

It is important to talk to your doctor before starting any medication for LPR, as some medications may have side effects or interactions with other medications you may be taking.

Tip 4: Speech Therapy

Speech therapy may also be helpful in treating LPR, especially if you are experiencing vocal cord damage. A speech therapist can help you modify your speaking and singing techniques to reduce strain on the vocal cords and improve your voice quality.

Tip 5: Surgical Options

If lifestyle changes, medications, and speech therapy are not effective in treating LPR, surgery may be an option. Common surgical procedures for LPR include:.

Nissen fundoplication: This procedure wraps the upper portion of the stomach around the LES, reinforcing it and preventing reflux.
Endoscopic procedures: These minimally invasive procedures use an endoscope to perform a variety of techniques to reduce reflux. Examples include transoral incisionless fundoplication (TIF) and radiofrequency ablation (RFA).

It is important to discuss all of your treatment options with your doctor to determine the best course of action for your particular case of LPR.

Tip 6: Stress Management

Stress can exacerbate symptoms of LPR. By engaging in stress-reducing activities like meditation, yoga, or deep breathing exercises, you may be able to reduce the frequency and severity of your symptoms.

Tip 7: Avoiding Triggers

Finally, identifying and avoiding triggers for your LPR can help reduce symptoms. Common triggers include:.

Acidic foods like citrus fruits and tomatoes
Spicy foods
Fatty foods
Alcohol and caffeine
Tight clothing that puts pressure on the stomach

By avoiding these triggers, you may be able to reduce the frequency and severity of your symptoms.

Conclusion

Laryngopharyngeal reflux can be a frustrating and uncomfortable condition.

However, by making lifestyle changes, taking medications, trying speech therapy, considering surgery, managing stress, and avoiding triggers, you can beat LPR and enjoy a more comfortable life.