What are the symptoms of laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR)?

Pharyngolaryngeal reflux (PLR), commonly manifests as hoarseness; a persistent sensation of a foreign body in the throat; chronic cough; and dysphagia (difficulty swallowing). These symptoms can significantly impair daily life and work performance. When PLR occurs, characteristic symptoms appear, enabling timely recognition and appropriate management. So, what are the symptoms of pharyngolaryngeal reflux? Below, we address this question.

What Are the Symptoms of Pharyngolaryngeal Reflux?

In most cases, pharyngolaryngeal reflux results from excessive gastric acid secretion, lower esophageal sphincter relaxation, or cricopharyngeal muscle relaxation. Clinically, it presents with symptoms such as a foreign-body sensation in the pharynx, hoarseness, and cough. A detailed analysis follows:

1. Foreign-Body Sensation in the Pharynx

In patients with pharyngolaryngeal reflux, gastric contents frequently reflux into the pharyngeal region, leading to recurrent sensations of a foreign body or dryness in the throat. This is often accompanied by throat pain, burning sensation, and a feeling of obstruction.

2. Hoarseness

Patients with pharyngolaryngeal reflux commonly experience marked hoarseness. As the disease progresses, laryngeal mucosal damage worsens, potentially resulting in dysphonia (voice impairment) or even aphonia (loss of voice).

3. Cough

Due to pharyngeal pruritus (itching) and the sensation of a foreign body, patients often unconsciously clear their throat and cough. This may be accompanied by recurrent dry cough, and some patients may experience increased pharyngeal secretions.

In addition, patients with pharyngolaryngeal reflux may also develop symptoms of indigestion, abdominal distension, and heartburn. As gastric acid secretion progressively increases, nausea, acid regurgitation, and an abnormal taste or sensation in the mouth may occur. In severe cases, respiratory distress may develop.