What is pharyngolaryngeal reflux?
Pharyngolaryngeal reflux refers to a condition that occurs when acid from the stomach frequently flows into the esophagus, which is the tube that connects the mouth and stomach.
This type of reflux is a mild acid reflux that occurs at least once or twice a week.
Prognosis of the disease
Normally, with changes in the patient’s lifestyle or by taking medication, the discomfort generated by this disease can be controlled, so it has a good prognosis.
However, in some cases, stronger medications or even surgery may be necessary to alleviate the symptoms.
Symptoms of pharyngolaryngeal reflux
Although in many cases, the symptoms of pharyngolaryngeal reflux are not specific, the most frequent are the following:
- Hoarseness
- Chronic dry cough
- Laryngitis
- Asthma problems
- Sleep disorders
- Difficulty swallowing
- Chest pain
- Itching in the throat
- Foreign body sensation in the throat
- Burning in the throat
- Burning in the front of the neck
- Thick phlegm
- Choking or choking sensation
Medical tests for pharyngolaryngeal reflux
It is important to establish a diagnosis by observing the larynx through an optical fiber called a fibrolaryngoscope, because there are other diseases that can cause the same symptoms as pharyngolaryngeal reflux, so a differential diagnosis must be made to indicate the most appropriate treatment.
Other diagnostic tests such as the following can also be performed:
- Upper endoscopy
- Probe test to measure the presence of acid.
- Esophageal manometry
- X-ray of the upper gastrointestinal tract
What are the causes of pharyngolaryngeal reflux?
The causes of pharyngolaryngeal reflux have their origin in frequent acid reflux. When swallowing, the lower esophageal sphincter relaxes to allow food and liquids to enter the stomach. The sphincter then closes again. In case the sphincter relaxes abnormally or weakens, acid can flow back up into the esophagus, thus generating pharyngolaryngeal reflux.
In this sense, there are some diseases that can increase the risk of suffering from this type of reflux. Among them are the following:
- Pregnancy
- Obesity
- Hiatal hernia
- Scleroderma
- Delayed stomach emptying.
There are also a number of risk factors that can aggravate the disease, such as:
- Smoking
- Drinking alcohol and coffee
- Some medications
- Eating fatty foods
- Eating fried foods
- Eating very large meals
- Eating late at night
Can it be prevented?
The prevention of this disease is based on avoiding the risk factors that can lead to its appearance and aggravation. Thus, it is essential to prevent diseases that can increase the risk of pharyngolaryngeal reflux, as well as to avoid the risk factors mentioned above.
It can be prevented by following these guidelines:
- Maintain a healthy weight
- Stop smoking
- Do not lie down after eating
- Eating slowly and chewing carefully
- Avoid foods and drinks that cause reflux.
- Avoid wearing tight-fitting clothing
Treatments for pharyngolaryngeal reflux
Before starting a surgical treatment, it is essential to follow the medical recommendations, which are based on making a series of changes in the patient’s lifestyle, as well as taking over-the-counter medications.
If after a few weeks the symptoms do not improve, the doctor may prescribe treatment with prescription drugs or surgery.
What specialist treats it?
The specialist in charge of treating pharyngolaryngeal reflux is the gastroenterologist.