Can laryngopharyngeal reflux cause hoarseness in voice and dryness in the throat or mouth?

Question

Hi doctor,

I have cramps and dryness in the throat and mouth, and I also feel suffocated while yawning, drinking, or swallowing. I do not have this issue during sleep and while waking up in the morning. I consulted an otolaryngologist. The doctor informed me that there is no infection and asked me to use a nasal spray. I am taking the tablets Nebilet 5 mg and Exforge 5/80 mg. Sometimes, I take a tablet of Nexium for reflux. Please explain the causes of this problem, and what should I do to cure this? Kindly help.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I understand your concern. The symptoms you have described are similar to those of GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease) and LPR (laryngopharyngeal reflux). I suggest you answer the following questions for further evaluation:

1) How long have you been suffering from these symptoms?

2) Are there any symptoms of reflux disease like heartburn, belching, regurgitation of stomach contents, frequent throat clearing or coughing, a bitter taste, or a sore throat?

3) Is there a feeling of a lump in the back of the throat, hoarseness or change in voice, or difficulty swallowing?

Thank you.

Answer 2

Hi,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

I understand your concern. I have gone through your reports attached (attachment removed to protect the patient's identity). Histopathology revealed moderate chronic antral gastritis and mild esophagitis. This is due to the reflux of acidic contents in the stomach, and the symptoms that you have mentioned are consistent with laryngopharyngeal reflux.

I suggest you take the tablet Nexium (Esomeprazole) 40 mg once a day on an empty stomach for one month. I also suggest you change dietary habits, avoid alcohol intake if you are taking it, and heavy meals just before going to bed. I hope this helps you.

Thank you.