How does reflux impact changes in your voice?

What Causes Reflux?

Reflux happens when stomach acid backs up into the esophagus or throat. This occurs because a valve called the "lower esophageal sphincter" (LES) between the stomach and the esophagus doesn't close properly, allowing acid to flow upward. It can happen for many reasons, including eating spicy or fatty foods, drinking alcohol, smoking, or being overweight.

GERD vs. LPR

• GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease): This occurs when acid moves up from the stomach into the esophagus, causing irritation. You may feel heartburn, chest pain, a sour taste in your mouth, or even have trouble swallowing or a feeling like food is stuck in your throat.

• LPR (laryngopharyngeal reflux): This occurs when stomach acid reaches the throat and voice box (larynx). It can cause symptoms like hoarseness, throat clearing, a sore throat, or coughing. People with LPR might not always feel heartburn because the acid affects the throat more than the esophagus.

• If you think that you are experiencing symptoms of GERD and/or LPR, it may be beneficial to see your primary doctor, a Gastroenterologist or an Ears, Nose and Throat (ENT) doctor for a proper assessment and to determine the best treatment approach.

  
  

How Can Reflux Be Treated?

Reflux treatment focuses on reducing stomach acid, improving lifestyle habits, and helping with any symptoms that affect your voice or swallowing.

Medications:

• Antacids: These can neutralize stomach acid and provide quick relief.

• H2 blockers: Medications like Pepcid (Famotidine) help reduce acid production.

• Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs): These medicines, like Prilosec (Omeprazole) or Protonix (Pantoprazole), reduce the amount of acid your stomach makes over a longer period.

  
  

Please visit our next blog post that will discuss lifestyle and dietary modifications that will help with management of reflux.

If you have been diagnosed with reflux and it is impacting your swallowing of voice, our speech therapists have experience with assisting with management of reflux, as well as, to assess and treat swallowing and speech/voice. Please contact our office at 315-810-2423 or info@brainbodybetter.com with any questions about how we may be able to help you!