How is reflux laryngopharyngitis treated?
Feb 05, 2021
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Liu Chunqing
Introduction
How is reflux laryngopharyngitis treated?
1. General management: Diet should emphasize high-protein, high-fiber, and low-fat foods; avoid irritants such as tobacco, alcohol, strong tea, coffee, and spicy foods (e.g., chili peppers).
2. Pharmacologic therapy: Primary treatment involves acid suppression, using agents such as H₂-receptor antagonists and proton pump inhibitors.
3. Surgical intervention: The procedure of choice is laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication.
Pharyngolaryngeal reflux (PLR), also known as reflux laryngopharyngitis, is a chronic inflammatory condition and mucosal injury caused by abnormal retrograde flow of gastric contents into the pharynx, larynx, and upper airway. So, how is reflux laryngopharyngitis treated? Below is an explanation.
How Is Reflux Laryngopharyngitis Treated?
1. General (Lifestyle) Management
Maintain healthy lifestyle and dietary habits. The diet should emphasize high-protein, high-fiber, and low-fat foods while avoiding irritants such as tobacco, alcohol, strong tea, coffee, and spicy foods (e.g., chili peppers). Additionally, adopt a pattern of eating smaller, more frequent meals; remain upright and engage in light physical activity after meals; avoid eating at least two hours before bedtime; and address negative emotional states such as depression and anxiety. Modifying diet and lifestyle plays a crucial role in alleviating symptoms of reflux laryngopharyngitis.
2. Pharmacologic Therapy
Primary treatment involves acid suppression, using agents such as H₂-receptor antagonists and proton pump inhibitors (PPIs). Currently, PPIs are internationally recognized as the first-line pharmacologic therapy. The recommended dose for treating reflux laryngopharyngitis is 20 mg per dose, administered twice daily—30 minutes before breakfast and dinner—and continued for 8–12 weeks.
3. Surgical Intervention When conservative measures prove ineffective, surgical options may be considered. These include endoscopic procedures and open surgery. Commonly used endoscopic treatments include esophageal micro-radiofrequency ablation and lower esophageal sphincter (LES) tightening procedures. The standard surgical approach is laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication. All these interventions aim to restore LES tone and thereby reduce the frequency of gastroesophageal reflux events. The above outlines the main treatment strategies for reflux laryngopharyngitis. We hope this information is helpful to you.
