Laryngopharyngeal Reflux: What Is LPR?
Laryngopharyngeal reflux disease (also referred to as “silent reflux” or LPR) is a condition in which stomach juice refluxes up through the esophagus into the back of the throat, causing irritation in the vocal cords and lungs. LPR is very similar to its’ close cousin, acid reflux, and oftentimes patients lump both conditions together. In reality, although both laryngopharyngeal reflux and acid reflux are caused by the same thing (stomach acid splashing up from the stomach into the esophagus), they differ significantly when it comes to the symptoms experiences by patients.
LPR is often referred to as silent reflux because in many patients it doesn't present with typical acid reflux symptoms like heartburn. Instead, most patients with LPR experience symptoms like a sore throat, chronic cough, etc., which are commonly associated with other illnesses. As a result, many cases LPR go undiagnosed.
LPR Symptoms & Diagnosis
How To Diagnose LPR
Laryngopharyngeal Reflux Symptoms
LPR is common in patients with GERD, and can present with or without other typical GERD symptoms. Most patients with LPR don't suffer from heartburn, but from the following symptoms:
• Hoarseness
• Continual throat clearing/irritation
• Chronic cough
• Shortness of breath
• Recurring sinus infections not due to other causes
LPR is typically suspected when a patient is found to have irritation of the vocal cords or airway during an evaluation for throat or lung related symptoms.
Tests used to diagnose Laryngopharyngeal reflux include:
• 24 hour impedance/pH testing
• 48 hour capsule pH testing
• Esophageal manometry
• Barium esophagram
LPR Treatment
Since LPR is caused by chronic reflux, treatments for LPR are similar to the ones used for treating GERD. Treatment plans can vary based on each individual case, but will generally include one or more of the following options:
• Lifestyle changes to reduce reflux
• Medication to reduce stomach acid
• Surgery to prevent reflux
Struggling with LPR? Schedule a consult with our reflux specialists and figure out your treatment options!