The flow of stomach contents, which contain acid and digestive enzymes, back into the esophagus or into the throat and larynx located higher up is called reflux. If this reflux occurs into the esophagus, "gastro-esophageal reflux"; If it happens to the throat, larynx and vocal cords, it is called "laryngopharyngeal reflux (throat reflux-larynx reflux)". Reflux into the esophagus is known to be more common, this reflux often creates a burning sensation in the chest. In throat-laryngeal reflux, this burning sensation is often absent, so it is also called "silent reflux".
What complaints does throat-larynx reflux cause?
In throat-laryngeal reflux, the affected area due to the reflux of acidic stomach contents is basically the throat, larynx and vocal cords. That's why patients' complaints belong to these areas. Complaints such as frequent throat clearing, feeling of something stuck or stuck in the throat, hoarseness or deterioration of voice quality, dense or large amounts of throat secretion, presence of a bitter or bad taste in the mouth, long-lasting cough, difficulty in swallowing and swallowing. can be observed.
How and by whom is the diagnosis of throat-laryngeal reflux made, and how is it treated?
Complaints in throat-laryngeal reflux are not specific to the disease, that is, many other diseases. may also create similar complaints. Therefore, a patient with complaints suggestive of reflux should be evaluated by an Ear, Nose and Throat physician.
After the diagnosis of reflux is made and its differential diagnosis with other diseases is made, diet and lifestyle changes are recommended to the patient. Apart from these, drug treatment is applied if necessary. Although the drug treatments for reflux into the esophagus and throat-larynx reflux are often similar, the dosages and treatment durations of the drugs are generally different. It is important to use the drugs used in the treatment of throat-laryngeal reflux in the correct dose and for the appropriate duration (about 3-6 months on average).
In addition to drug treatment, some patients may benefit from rehabilitation methods such as vocal hygiene and voice therapy.
In rare cases that do not respond to medication or are resistant Surgical treatment (fundoplication, laparoscopic fundoplication) may be required for efflux. Sometimes, in cases such as airway stenosis and vocal cord granulomas that occur secondary to reflux, surgical treatment may be required in addition to drug therapy.
What are the recommended diet and lifestyle changes to prevent throat-larynx reflux?
• You should not gain weight, you should maintain your ideal weight,
• You should avoid clothes that are too tight on the abdominal area. One should not consume anything other than water one hour before
• Eat small and frequent meals
• Avoid stress
• Do not smoke cigarettes and other tobacco products
• Stay away from alcohol
• Bedside The part should be raised approximately 10-15 cm
• One should not use gum, candy, cough syrups and mouthwashes containing menthol. (such as coffee, tea, cola), carbonated drinks, foods containing tomatoes and tomato sauce (tomato paste, ketchup, etc.), citrus fruits (orange, tangerine, lemon, etc.), pineapple, vinegar, lemon juice, milk and dairy products. , chocolate, nuts with high fat content (such as peanuts, hazelnuts, cashew), foods containing intense mint.
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