Laryngo-pharyngeal reflux (LPR) is a condition where stomach contents including acid flow back and up into the throat. Women, men, infants, and children can all have gastro-esophageal reflux disease (GERD) or LPR.

Many patients with LPR do not experience the symptom of heartburn associated with GERD. While GERD and LPR may occur together, patients can also have GERD alone (without LPR) or LPR alone (without GERD)

Common signs and symptoms of LPR include:

Persistent cough
Feeling of something stuck in the throat (globus sensation)
Persistent clearing of the throat
Hoarseness of voice or voice fatigue
Sensation of drainage from the back of the nose (post nasal drip)

The reflux score index is a self-administered questionnaire that provides insight into the diagnosis of LPR

LPR may result from physical causes or lifestyle factors. Physical causes can include a malfunctioning or abnormal lower esophageal sphincter muscle (LES), hiatal hernia, abnormal esophageal contractions, and slow emptying of the stomach. Lifestyle factors include diet (chocolate, citrus, fatty foods, spices), destructive habits (overeating, alcohol and tobacco abuse) and even pregnancy. Young children experience GERD and LPR due to the developmental immaturity of both the upper and lower esophageal sphincters. It should also be noted that some patients are just more susceptible to injury from reflux than others

Diagnosis starts with a careful history by the ENT doctor. This is followed by an endoscopy (a long tube with a camera) to examine the throat and voice box

The treatment options include:

Lifestyle and behaviour modifications
Weight loss
Diet changes
Many small meals instead of large lunches or dinner
Eating dinner 3 hours before you go to sleep
Avoiding exercising right before you go to sleep
Limit problem foods
Caffeine (tea, coffee or cola drinks)
Chocolate
Pepper mint
Spicy foods
Citrus fruits
Fatty and fried foods
Eliminate alcohol and smoking
Sleep with the head of the bed elevated at 30 degrees
Medication
Proton pump inhibitors
H2 receptor blockers as add on
Antacids if needed
Surgery
Tailored for each patient and very carefully considered