Laryngopharyngeal Reflux (Throat Irritation)

Laryngopharyngeal Reflux (Throat Irritation)

What is Laryngopharyngeal Reflux?

Throat discomfort can be a symptom for numerous conditions of the head & neck. In particular, people who smoke should take any throat irritation symptoms seriously as this could represent a malignancy.

In the absence of malignancy, laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR) is a common cause for throat discomfort and irritation. Acid from the stomach can regurgitate up into the throat causing a low grade acid injury. This injury to the lining of the throat is a common contributor to throat discomfort and irritation.

What are the symptoms of Laryngopharyngeal Reflux?

  • Throat irritation and discomfort

  • Constant throat clearing

  • Foreign body sensation

  • Metallic taste

  • Acid regurgitation sensation

  • Water brash

  • Heartburn

  • Post-nasal drip

Occasionally none of these symptoms are present, so the condition can also be known as “silent reflux”.

Pain and difficulty when swallowing (dysphagia & odynophagia), coughing up blood (haemoptysis), severe ear pain (otalgia), voice change (dysphonia) and unexplained weight loss are all red flag symptoms and need to be investigated urgently.

How do you treat Laryngopharyngeal Reflux?

Nasendoscopy and possibly imaging (CT scan) is required to confirm the diagnosis of LPR and exclude a malignancy. Once LPR has been confirmed then both lifestyle and medical treatments can be discussed.