LPR: the Dos and Don’ts

Laryngopharyngeal reflux, or more commonly referred to as LPR, is the condition wherein acidic reflux from the stomach travels up to the throat. This condition is characterized by non-specific symptoms, which generally are felt on the throat, such as the feeling of a lump and constant clearing of the throat, hoarseness of voice, sore throat and chronic cough, and a long list of other symptoms.

The discomfort in the throat is caused when pepsin, which is a stomach protein, is brought and activated in the throat by the acid from the reflux. Acidic food that we ingest can also help in the activation of the pepsin. LPR is caused by some physiologic malfunctioning of the upper and lower esophageal sphincter, abnormal peristalsis, blockage of the pyloric sphincter, and decreased stomach motility or gastroparesis. By doing these precautionary measures, we can prevent the worsening of the condition and reduce the episodes of symptoms.

Watch Your Diet

Some food products and beverages are known to encourage reflux. These include caffeine and chocolate. Acidic foods can also aggravate the symptoms by activating pepsin activity in the throat, while fats can decrease motility in the stomach because it can slow down digestion.

As these food groups can trigger reflux and pepsin activity and affect gastric motility, they should be taken in minimally. Some diet alternatives for individuals diagnosed with LPR should be formulated by the best dietician so as not to compromise the nutritional needs of the patient.

Start avoiding large meals and go for foods that are easily digestible. Do not take in food 3-4 hours before retiring

Avoid Lifting Heavy Loads

Weightlifting and other heavy workouts, such as stomach crunches, should be avoided by individuals with laryngopharyngeal reflux. This is because these activities can increase the pressure inside the abdomen. When pressure is increased, the possibility of acidic reflux is double.

You should also avoid activities such as gardening because it requires a lot of bending that triggers reflux.

Dress Code to Relieve Symptoms

Avoid tight-fitting clothes. You can get irritated on your neck and breast area, which can trigger symptoms. Men should also wear suspenders rather than belts, and women should not even use girdles. All of these can help increase internal abdominal pressure.

When lying in bed, elevate your head to relieve symptoms at night. If you are a tobacco smoker or an alcohol drinker, always remember that these substances are irritants to your esophagus, which can trigger symptoms. Alcohol is also a potent substance that can cause reflux.