Reflux Laryngitis (cont.)
What are the typical symptoms of reflux laryngitis?
Heartburn is the most common symptom associated with
reflux. Approximately 50% of the U.S. population experiences heartburn at least
monthly, and 4%-7% experience it daily. In addition to
heartburn, reflux severe enough to cause laryngitis can cause chronic
hoarseness, asthma, or a foreign body sensation in the throat (globus
phenomenon).
How is reflux laryngitis evaluated?
In most patients, the presumptive diagnosis of reflux laryngitis is based on
the typical history of heartburn and hoarseness. Testing usually is reserved for
those patients who do not respond to conservative therapy (as explained below)
or drug therapy. Diagnostic tests includes an:
What is the conservative therapy of reflux?
The treatment of reflux laryngitis is the treatment of gastroesophageal
reflux.
- Antacids neutralize stomach acid and give immediate
relief. Popular choices include sodium bicarbonate (Alka Seltzer),
calcium
carbonate (Tums, Rolaids, Alka-Mints), and
aluminum and magnesium antacids
(Maalox, Mylanta, Riopan, Gaviscon). It is best to use antacids 30 to 60 minutes
after each meal and at bedtime because they are more effective at these times.
If patients are on a low sodium diet, they should avoid sodium bicarbonate.
Calcium and aluminum can cause constipation, while magnesium antacids can cause
diarrhea. Patents with
kidney disease should avoid magnesium and aluminum antacids. Patients
should check with their pharmacist or doctor for any interactions with other
medications they are taking.
- Large meals for dinner should be avoided.
- Several hours should be allowed after eating before lying down to allow
the stomach to empty. Eating after the evening meal and bedtime snacks should be
avoided.
- Spicy or fried foods, peppermint, citrus, tomatoes, onions, and chocolate,
especially if these foods increase symptoms, should be avoided.
- The diet should be high-protein, high-carbohydrate, and low-fat.
- It may be helpful to elevate the head of the bed with
wooden blocks under the bedposts to allow gravity to keep the acid in the
stomach. Pillows under the head are of negligible benefit though wedges that
elevate the head and upper chest are effective.
- Alcohol, caffeinated beverages, and tobacco should be avoided.
- Losing weight reduces reflux.
- Drugs such as nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDS),
theophylline (Theo-Dur, Respbid, Slo-Bid, Theo-24, Theolair, Uniphyl, Slo-Phyllin),
anticholinergics, and calcium channel blockers should be avoided if feasible,
but discontinuing any medication should be discussed with the doctor first.
Next: What types of medications are used to treat reflux? »
- omeprazole, omeprazole/sodium bicarbonate, Prilosec, Zegerid - Describes the medication omeprazole (Prilosec, Zegerid ) a drug used for treating acid-induced inflammation and ulcers of the stomach and duodenum, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and Zollinger-Ellison Syndrome. Article includes descriptions, uses, drug interactions, and side effects.
- Endoscopy (Esophagogastroduodenoscopy, EGD) - Learn about the endoscopy procedure which examines the esophagus, stomach and duodenum to detect gastrointestinal and digestive disorders on MedicineNet.com
- Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD, Heartburn) - Learn about gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD, acid reflux, heartburn) symptoms like heartburn, chest pain, regurgitation, and nausea. Causes, diagnosis, treatment and prevention information is also included.
Latest Medical News
|
|
 |
From WebMD
Heartburn Resources
Featured Centers
Health Solutions From Our Sponsors
|
Digestion RSS