Is It Silent Reflux or Acid Reflux? How To Tell The Difference Between LPR & GERD
One of the most common reflux questions we get is, 'Is LPR the same as GERD?' It’s a difficult question to answer, and it can be even more challenging to diagnose, as the symptoms for these two conditions are similar enough that they could easily be mistaken for each other.
And yet, there are some distinct differences in how they present themselves and which parts of your esophagus they affect, making them different from one another. Today we're highlighting these differences to understand what could have caused your symptoms and whether or not you need treatment!
What Is LPR?
LPR is a lesser-known condition, but it can have debilitating symptoms and complications. Sometimes referred to as 'silent reflux,' the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) doesn't work correctly in people with LPR, allowing stomach acid or bile to flow back into the esophagus (swallowing tube) and get to the throat. LPR is caused by the muscles of the LES relaxing and not contracting when they should, thus allowing stomach contents to flow back into the esophagus
LPR Symptoms
LPR symptoms can include chest pain, coughing/throat clearing (due to throat irritation), difficulty swallowing food or drink and heartburn that doesn't subside.
LPR can make you feel like your stomach is pushing up and into the back of your throat with an uncomfortable sensation that's sometimes called "the silent reflux disease" because it doesn't cause other symptoms such as heartburn.
What Is GERD?
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is when stomach acid frequently flows back into the esophagus. GERD is caused by increased stomach acid production or decreased lower esophageal sphincter (LES) tone. It is often worsened by bending over, lying down or eating a big meal.
GERD Symptoms
GERD symptoms can include: heartburn, regurgitation of food, chest pain and difficulty swallowing.
Can You Have Both?
It's possible to have LPR as well as GERD. A person with GERD will have heartburn as a symptom, but LPR is characterized by having difficulty swallowing and chest pain. If you're experiencing both problems, then it's likely that the two conditions are overlapping or related to one another.
Types of Reflux Treatment
For GERD
If you have GERD, medications like antacids and acid blockers can help alleviate the symptoms, but should only be used sparingly. GERD surgery is the only way to get true long-term relief.
For LPR
Treatment for LPR is usually more complicated as it's less common, and there are a variety of causes that need to be addressed. The treatment options for LPR are dependent on the severity of symptoms as well as the underlying cause.
For some people with less severe cases of silent reflux, LPR is relieved with simple lifestyle changes like improving sleep habits and eating less before bedtime.
However, when it comes to surgery, many of the same reflux surgical procedures (such as the Lap Nissen Fundoplication) used to treat GERD can also be employed.
Get Help With Your Reflux
If you suspect that you have LPR or GERD, don't wait to get diagnosed and start feeling relief. Our experts at Tampa Bay Reflux Center are here to help.