Can reflux esophagitis cause pharyngitis?
Disease description:
I have reflux esophagitis, and recently I've constantly felt discomfort in my throat—dryness, itching, and coughing. I'm wondering whether reflux esophagitis can cause pharyngitis? It's really uncomfortable.
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Shen Yonghua
In general, reflux esophagitis may cause pharyngitis.
When reflux esophagitis occurs, the contents of the stomach and duodenum may reflux into the throat. These substances often contain digestive fluids such as gastric acid and pepsin, which can strongly irritate and damage the mucous membrane of the throat, leading to throat inflammation. Symptoms may include sore throat, hoarseness, and difficulty swallowing. If reflux esophagitis is not effectively controlled over a long period, it may lead to chronic pharyngitis.
Patients with reflux esophagitis who experience symptoms of throat discomfort should consider the possibility that these symptoms may be caused by gastroesophageal reflux and should seek medical attention promptly. Managing the condition through adjustments to dietary habits, lifestyle changes, and necessary medication can help alleviate symptoms of pharyngitis and prevent further progression.
During treatment, patients are advised to avoid spicy and greasy foods, reduce portion sizes at dinner, avoid lying down immediately after meals, quit smoking, and limit alcohol consumption to reduce the likelihood of gastric acid reflux.
