Have you ever noticed a lingering sore throat, persistent cough or an unusual hoarseness in your voice that doesn’t seem to go away? Acid reflux may be the culprit. Let’s dive into how acid reflux impacts throat health and what you can do to protect it.
What Is Acid Reflux?
Acid reflux occurs when stomach acid travels into the esophagus, leading to uncomfortable symptoms like heartburn, indigestion or a sour taste in the mouth. Many people experience occasional acid reflux, especially after indulging in a large or spicy meal. However, when acid consistently reaches the throat and vocal cords, it’s called laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR).
How Does Acid Reflux Impact Throat Health?
Approximately 10% of people who visit a throat specialist are diagnosed with LPR. When stomach acid repeatedly comes into contact with the delicate tissues of the throat, it can trigger uncomfortable and potentially damaging symptoms, including hoarseness, chronic throat clearing, persistent coughing and difficulty swallowing.
Steps To Protect Your Throat From Acid Reflux
Maintaining a healthy throat starts with managing the underlying reflux. Addressing LPR can prevent discomfort and reduce the risk of complications. A few lifestyle changes you can make to minimize LPR include:
- Steer clear of trigger foods like spicy dishes and citrus fruits
- Swap your afternoon Base Coffee Latte for an herbal tea
- Sleep on your left side to minimize acid flow into the throat
- Opt for smaller, more frequent meals instead of large portions
- Avoid eating within three hours of bedtime to reduce nighttime reflux
- Wear loose-fitting clothing, especially around the abdomen
If lifestyle changes don’t provide enough relief, your throat specialist may recommend medical intervention:
- Medications. Over-the-counter or prescription medications can help neutralize or reduce stomach acid production.
- Surgery. In severe cases, procedures to strengthen the lower esophageal sphincter can prevent acid from rising.
Don’t Let Acid Reflux Take a Toll on Your Throat
Your throat is a key part of how you communicate, breathe and enjoy your favorite meals. If you’ve been experiencing persistent throat symptoms or suspect acid reflux is to blame, don’t wait to seek help. Contact South Valley Ear Nose & Throat – West Jordan today for an appointment with one of our throat specialists.