Laryngopharyngeal Reflux (LPR): What It Is and How to Find Relief

If you’ve ever felt a sour taste in the back of your throat or heard your voice crack for no clear reason, LPR might be behind it. Unlike typical heartburn that burns the chest, LPR sends stomach acid up to the voice box and throat. The result is irritation, hoarseness, and sometimes a constant need to clear the throat.

Common Signs of LPR

Most people think reflux only hurts the stomach, but LPR shows up in the throat. Look out for these clues:

• Persistent hoarseness or a voice that sounds “tight.”
• A feeling of something stuck in the throat (often called globus).
• Sore throat that doesn’t get better with usual remedies.
• Frequent throat clearing, especially after meals.
• Coughing at night or waking up coughing.

If you notice a combo of these symptoms, it’s worth checking whether acid is the culprit. A simple test by an ENT doctor can confirm LPR and rule out other causes.

Practical Ways to Manage LPR

The good news? Small lifestyle tweaks can cut down the acid that reaches your throat. Start with these easy steps:

1. Eat smaller meals. Large portions push more stomach content upward.
2. Avoid trigger foods. Spicy dishes, citrus, chocolate, caffeine, and carbonated drinks often worsen reflux.
3. Stay upright after eating. Wait at least two hours before lying down or sleeping.
4. Elevate your head of the bed. Raising it 6‑8 inches helps keep acid down while you rest.
5. Hydrate wisely. Sip water throughout the day, but avoid gulping large amounts at once.

If lifestyle changes aren’t enough, over‑the‑counter options like alginate-based rinses or antacids can give quick relief. Talk to a pharmacist about products that coat the throat and keep acid away. For persistent cases, a doctor may prescribe proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) or H2 blockers.

Remember, LPR isn’t just an annoyance—it can affect your voice, sleep, and overall comfort. By spotting the signs early and tweaking daily habits, you can keep the irritation at bay and protect your throat health.