Causes and Treatments of Reflux Laryngitis

Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease, or GERD, occurs when stomach contents move backwards up into the esophagus. Patients that are obese or have a hiatal hernia have an increased risk of GERD. In instances where the stomach acid backs up into the larynx, or voicebox, the condition is known as reflux laryngitis.

The most common symptom of reflux laryngitis is heartburn. Severe reflux laryngitis can also cause hoarseness and asthma. In other cases, the patient may feel as though they have something caught in their throat, which is referred to as globus phenomenon.

There are a number of medications, both over the counter and prescription that are used to treat gastroesophageal reflux disease including heartburn. These include acid-blocking drugs such as Pepcid, Tagmet, Axid and Zantac (rantidine). These classes of drugs are available without a doctor’s prescription and are known as H2-blockers. Protein pump inhibitors, such as Prilosec and Prevacid are also available without a prescription. Reglan is a prescription medication that is sometimes prescribed to help with stomach emptying.

In cases where medication therapy is ineffective, surgery may be advised. Surgery includes strengthening the lower esophageal sphincter (or muscular valve), which is known as the fundoplication procedure. Fundoplication can be performed either as a minimally invasive laparoscopic surgery or transorally. The transoral approach uses a procedure called TIF Esophyx and is performed through the mouth without abdominal incisions.

Heartburn and hoarseness are typically present in a diagnosis of reflux laryngitis. When conservative treatment or drug therapy are not effective, Dallas and Fort Worth patients may be advised to obtain certain diagnostic tests. These tests include espohagram, laryngoscopy, endoscopy and esophageal pH monitoring.