How is reflux laryngopharyngitis treated?
Apr 25, 2022
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Wang Bing
Introduction
Reflux laryngopharyngitis requires not only treatment of pharyngeal disease and pharyngeal inflammation but also management of the underlying cause—commonly gastric or gastrointestinal disorders. Often, prokinetic agents or medications for gastritis are required, as gastritis is frequently present.
Reflux laryngopharyngitis is often caused by gastroesophageal reflux—namely, gastric acid flowing backward from the stomach into the esophagus and reaching the pharynx and larynx. This results in chronic, physical irritation of the throat, leading to recurrent pharyngeal inflammation, persistent foreign-body sensation in the throat, repeated throat pain, and chronic cough.
In such cases, while treating the pharyngeal inflammation itself is necessary, it is even more critical to address the underlying cause—typically a gastric or gastrointestinal disorder. Often, prokinetic agents or medications for gastritis are required, as concomitant gastritis is common. Management of reflux laryngopharyngitis thus involves a two-pronged, simultaneous approach: first, treating the pharyngeal inflammation; and second—and more importantly—treating the primary gastrointestinal disease.
Unfortunately, many clinicians focus solely on symptomatic treatment of the throat without addressing the root cause—gastroesophageal reflux. Consequently, symptoms may temporarily improve only to recur once reflux resumes and gastric acid again irritates and inflames the pharynx. Therefore, the most crucial step is to treat the underlying gastrointestinal disease—the true source of the problem. Additionally, patients should avoid spicy or otherwise gastric-irritating foods, limit alcohol consumption, and quit smoking entirely—abstinence from both alcohol and tobacco being optimal.
