Many people have LPR without any associated heartburn and instead they experience chest pain, hoarseness, difficulty swallowing, excessive mucous, throat clearing, a sensation of a lump in the throat, sore throat, choking spells, wheezing, post-nasal drip, dry cough, or bad breath. The classic symptom of GERD is heartburn. Tight fitting clothing may place pressure inside the abdominal cavity much like excessive body weight does and therefore may cause reflux symptoms. Obesity and pregnancy also contribute to LPR/GERD symptoms because the additional weight places increased pressure on the sphincter muscles in attempt to keep food in the stomach. Many foods are acidic or contain irritating substances that increase the stomach’s production of acid. Eating large meals and lying down after eating may induce reflux symptoms. What causes LPR?Įating habits, diet, and obesity all contribute to the development of GERD. When stomach contents irritate the voice box and back of the throat/nose, symptoms are less often heartburn, and more often consist of post nasal drip, throat clearing, cough, and lump in the throat. When the refluxed stomach acid comes into contact with the lining of the esophagus, it causes a burning sensation in the chest or in the throat that we call heartburn or acid indigestion. It occurs when the lower esophageal sphincter (LED) does not close properly and the stomach contents are allowed to leak back or reflux into the esophagus and then up to the voice box and possibly the back of the nose and sinus cavity. LPR is similar to Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease, or GERD. Laryngopharyngeal Reflux (LPR) What is LPR? Other causes are less common and should be thoroughly evaluated by an ENT specialist. Acid reflux is treated with over-the-counter or prescription medications, depending upon the severity of the symptoms. Treatments for viral infections, allergies, and sinusitis are discussed in other sections. Swallowing problems or acid reflux can give patients similar symptoms of nasal/throat drainage or phlegm.Ī correct diagnosis of the underlying problem is essential to properly treat a patient with post-nasal drip. Increased thick secretions can occur from low humidity in the winter, a decrease in fluid intake (dehydration), bacterial sinus infections, or from some medications (antihistamines). Post-nasal drainage can often lead to cough, sore throat, frequent throat clearing, and the feeling of a lump in the throat.Īn excess in thin, clear secretions can be from viral infections, allergies, spicy foods, temperature changes, pregnancy and some medications (birth control pills, blood pressure medications). When the mucus becomes thick or excessive in volume, it can cause the sensation of post-nasal drip. Normally this mucus is swallowed unconsciously many times throughout the day. This mucus moistens the lining of the nose and sinuses, humidifies the air, traps inhaled particles, and helps to fight infections.
Glands in the nose and throat normally produce 1-2 quarts of mucus every day.
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