Laryngopharyngeal Reflux (LPR)

What is Laryngopharyngeal Reflux (LPR)?

Laryngopharyngeal reflux occurs when stomach acid or digestive enzymes flow backward into the throat and voice box. Unlike heartburn, LPR often causes throat clearing, chronic cough, hoarseness or the feeling of a lump in the throat. It commonly affects people who eat late at night or have high stress levels.

How is LPR treated?

Lifestyle and diet changes are the foundation of treatment—avoiding late meals, caffeine, alcohol, and acidic foods can make a big difference. Elevating the head of the bed and maintaining a healthy weight also help. Medications such as proton pump inhibitors or H2 blockers may reduce acid and allow healing. 

Swallowing Disorders (Dysphagia)

Man holding throat due to having a sore throat while talking to ENT doctor

What is Dysphagia?

Swallowing disorders, known as dysphagia, occur when food or liquids don’t move smoothly from the mouth to the stomach. This may be due to muscle or nerve problems, reflux, scarring or structural narrowing.

Symptoms include:

  • coughing or choking while eating
  • a sensation of food sticking
  • unexplained weight loss

How is Dysphagia treated?

Evaluation may include imaging or swallow studies to identify the cause. Treatment often involves swallowing therapy with a speech-language pathologist, diet modifications and management of underlying conditions such as reflux. In some cases, procedures to widen narrowed areas can improve swallowing safety and comfort.

Laryngitis

What is Laryngitis?

Laryngitis is an inflammation of the vocal cords, often caused by viral infections, overuse of the voice, allergies or reflux. It leads to hoarseness, throat discomfort or temporary voice loss. Most cases are short-term, though chronic irritation can prolong symptoms.

How is Laryngitis treated?

Voice rest, hydration, and humidification are key for recovery. Avoid whispering or shouting, which can strain the vocal cords further. If reflux or allergies are contributing, treating these conditions helps prevent recurrence. Hoarseness lasting longer than two to three weeks should be evaluated by an otolaryngologist for direct visualization to diagnose the problem.

Hoarseness (Dysphonia)

What is Dysphonia?

Hoarseness, known as Dysphonia, refers to a change in voice quality—such as breathiness, raspiness or weakness—caused by irritation or abnormal vocal cord vibration. It can result from overuse, reflux, infection, allergies or benign vocal cord lesions. Persistent hoarseness may signal an underlying voice disorder.

How is hoarseness treated?

The goal is to address the underlying cause and promote vocal health. Resting the voice, staying hydrated and avoiding irritants, such as smoking or vaping, are essential. Voice therapy with a speech-language pathologist can improve technique and prevent strain. Some cases may require medication or surgical treatment to restore normal vocal function.