REFLUX

Reflux is a common condition that refers to acidic liquid or gas, regurgitating up from the stomach where it is produced. This can cause heartburn and a burning chest discomfort in patients.

Silent reflux, or laryngopharyngeal reflux, is a condition that presents with a variety of throat symptoms, often without the acidic taste. Symptoms can include:

• tightness or a lump sensation in throat
• voice changes
• tight or forceful swallow
• sore throat
• coughing
• post-nasal drip

Your ENT surgeon will discuss these symptoms with you, and examine the throat with a small endoscope. Investigations are occasionally ordered.

The management of reflux centres on limiting dietary contributors and smoking. These include spicy or acidic foods and drink, caffeine, chocolates and alcohol. Medication to limit acid production and reflux will also be discussed.