Some people are diagnosed with laryngitis when the reason
for hoarseness is from reflux of stomach
acid into the throat. Laryngopharyngeal
reflux, also known as “silent” reflux, may not have symptoms of
heartburn. Laryngopharyngeal reflux
should be suspected with the following symptoms
- intermittent hoarseness,
- chronic cough,
- frequent throat clearing,
- a sensation of a lump in the throat,
- pain with swallowing or
- heartburn.
Symptoms may resolve with lifestyle changes so that
medication is not needed.
- Stop smoking.
- Avoid alcohol, caffeine,
carbonated beverages, spicy/acidic foods, citrus fruits or chocolate. (With that list you may wonder what CAN you eat. . . ). - Eat smaller, more frequent meals,
- lose weight, and
- do not eat less than 3 hours before bedtime.
The American Gastroenterological Association and the
American Academy of Otolaryngology- Head and Neck Surgery do not agree
completely on treatment. They do agree that if lifestyle
changes do not resolve symptoms a trial of reflux medication (proton-pump inhibitors or H2 blockers) can be tried daily and reassessed in 3 months
Keep this diagnosis in mind.
Hope this helps.
