Laryngopharyngeal Reflux (LPR): How Silent Reflux Affects Your Throat
Expert Care at the Best ENT Clinic in Dubai
Laryngopharyngeal Reflux (LPR), often referred to as silent reflux, is a lesser-known but common condition where stomach acid flows back into the throat and voice box. Unlike typical acid reflux or GERD, LPR doesn’t always cause heartburn—making it harder to detect and diagnose. At the ENT Clinic of Excellence in Dubai, we specialize in the accurate diagnosis and effective treatment of LPR, helping you regain comfort and protect your long-term throat and voice health.
What Is Laryngopharyngeal Reflux (LPR)?
LPR occurs when stomach acid travels up through the esophagus and reaches the larynx (voice box) and pharynx (throat). These areas are more sensitive than the esophagus and can be easily irritated, even by small amounts of acid.
Common Symptoms of Silent Reflux
Because LPR doesn’t always present with heartburn, it’s often mistaken for allergies, infections, or throat dryness. You may have LPR if you experience:
- Chronic throat clearing
- Hoarseness or voice changes
- A sensation of a lump in the throat (globus sensation)
- Persistent dry cough
- Sore or burning throat
- Difficulty swallowing
- Post-nasal drip or excess throat mucus
If these symptoms persist, especially in the absence of heartburn, an ENT evaluation is essential.
What Causes LPR?
LPR is caused by weakness or dysfunction of the upper and lower esophageal sphincters, which normally prevent stomach contents from refluxing into the throat. Contributing factors include:
- Diet: Spicy, acidic, or fatty foods
- Lifestyle habits: Smoking, alcohol use, stress
- Obesity: Increases pressure on the stomach
- Overeating: Larger meals can push acid upward
- Lying down after eating: Gravity no longer helps prevent reflux
How LPR Affects the Throat and Voice
Stomach acid is extremely irritating to throat tissues. Over time, LPR can cause:
- Vocal cord inflammation and damage
- Difficulty speaking or voice fatigue
- Chronic laryngitis
- Increased risk of throat infections and long-term complications like strictures or even laryngeal cancer (in untreated, severe cases)
LPR vs. GERD: What’s the Difference?
| Feature | GERD | LPR |
|---|---|---|
| Affected Area | Esophagus | Throat & Voice Box |
| Main Symptom | Heartburn | Hoarseness, Throat Clearing, Cough |
| Symptom Timing | After meals, when lying down | Anytime, including daytime |
| Diagnosis | pH monitoring, esophageal tests | ENT evaluation with laryngoscopy |
| Common Triggers | Fatty/spicy foods, lying down | Acidic foods, alcohol, stress |
Diagnosis of LPR at Our Dubai ENT Clinic
At the ENT Clinic of Excellence in Dubai, we use specialized tools to accurately diagnose LPR:
🔍 Thorough Medical History: We identify subtle symptoms and triggers.
📹 Laryngoscopy: A minimally invasive procedure to view your throat and vocal cords.
🎯 Customized Testing: If needed, pH monitoring or referral for further gastrointestinal evaluation.
LPR Treatment: A Personalized Approach
Our treatment strategy focuses on long-term symptom relief and throat protection:
✅ Lifestyle Modifications
- Avoid acidic, spicy, and fried foods
- Don’t lie down for at least 2–3 hours after eating
- Eat smaller, more frequent meals
- Elevate your head while sleeping
- Stop smoking and limit alcohol
✅ Medications
- Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs) to reduce acid production
- H2 blockers or antacids for quick relief
- Nasal sprays or throat rinses if post-nasal drip is involved
✅ Surgical Options
In rare, severe cases where medical therapy fails, surgery to reinforce the esophageal sphincter may be considered. This is only after thorough ENT and GI evaluation.
When Should You See an ENT Specialist?
If you’ve had persistent throat issues, unexplained hoarseness, or a chronic cough—especially without heartburn—you could be suffering from LPR. Untreated LPR can lead to:
- Vocal cord nodules
- Chronic inflammation
- Long-term damage to throat tissues
- Difficulty speaking (especially for singers, speakers, or teachers)
- Rarely, precancerous or cancerous changes in the throat
Why Choose the ENT Clinic of Excellence in Dubai?
👨⚕️ Experienced ENT Consultant: Expert in treating complex voice and throat conditions
🧪 Advanced Diagnostic Tools: Including high-definition laryngoscopy and flexible scopes
💼 Holistic Care: From diet modification to medication and follow-up
🌍 Multilingual Staff: We cater to Dubai’s diverse population
📍 Convenient Location: Easily accessible from all areas of Dubai
Take the First Step Toward Relief
LPR is often silent—but you don’t have to suffer in silence. If you’re struggling with unexplained throat symptoms, we’re here to help.
📞 Call us: +971 50 248 0249
📧 Email: info@entclinic.ae
🌐 Book online: www.entclinic.ae
📍 Location: Dubai Healthcare City – Building 64, Block A, 2nd floor
At the best ENT clinic in Dubai, your voice, breathing, and throat health are our priority. Schedule your consultation today.