Laryngopharyngeal Reflux
Here you will get an overview of the pathology, the ability to treat diseases with Oriental medicine, and with acupressure therapies along with other therapies combined.
The information is updated gradually and regularly. For reference only, not a substitute for your doctor.
Laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR) is a condition where the contents of the stomach reflux back into the larynx and pharynx, causing irritation and inflammation. Unlike gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), LPR primarily affects the upper respiratory tract, including the larynx, pharynx, and lungs. This condition is also known as extraesophageal reflux disease or silent reflux.
Causes and Risk Factors
LPR is caused by the failure of the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), a ring of muscles that separates the esophagus from the stomach, to function properly. This can occur due to a variety of reasons, including obesity, pregnancy, hiatal hernia, certain medications, and smoking. In addition, consuming acidic or spicy foods, carbonated beverages, and alcohol can also trigger LPR.
People who are at an increased risk of developing LPR include those with a history of GERD, asthma, and allergies. Stress, anxiety, and a lack of sleep can also exacerbate LPR symptoms.
Symptoms
The symptoms of LPR can be similar to those of other respiratory conditions, making it difficult to diagnose. Common symptoms of LPR include a persistent cough, hoarseness, sore throat, difficulty swallowing, and a feeling of a lump in the throat. Other symptoms may include a constant need to clear the throat, postnasal drip, and a sour or bitter taste in the mouth.
Prevention and Treatment
Lifestyle changes are the first line of treatment for LPR. These include avoiding trigger foods and beverages, eating smaller meals, losing weight if necessary, and quitting smoking. Elevating the head of the bed by six to eight inches can also help reduce symptoms.
In addition to lifestyle changes, medication may also be prescribed to help manage symptoms of LPR. These may include proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) and H2 blockers, which reduce the amount of acid produced in the stomach.
Oriental Medicine
Oriental medicine, including acupuncture and acupressure, may also be beneficial in managing LPR symptoms. In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), LPR is believed to be caused by an imbalance in the body's energy flow. Acupuncture and acupressure may help correct this imbalance and reduce inflammation in the larynx and pharynx.
Acupuncture involves inserting thin needles into specific points on the body, while acupressure involves applying pressure to these points with the fingers or other tools. Both methods may help alleviate symptoms of LPR and promote overall wellness.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Laryngopharyngeal reflux can be a debilitating condition that can significantly impact a person's quality of life. While lifestyle changes and medication are the primary treatments for LPR, Oriental medicine may offer a complementary approach to managing symptoms. If you are experiencing symptoms of LPR, it is important to speak with your healthcare provider to determine the best course of treatment for your individual needs.
References
Belafsky, P. C., Postma, G. N., & Koufman, J. A. (2002). The validity and reliability of the reflux finding score (RFS). Laryngoscope, 112(5), 1-16. This study validates the reflux finding score (RFS), which is used to assess the severity of laryngopharyngeal reflux.
Ford, C. N. (2005). Evaluation and management of laryngopharyngeal reflux. Journal of the American Medical Association, 294(12), 1-11. This article provides an overview of the evaluation and management of laryngopharyngeal reflux.
Huang, Y., Liang, L., & Li, Y. (2018). Traditional Chinese medicine in the treatment of laryngopharyngeal reflux disease: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Journal of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 38(5), 1-12. This systematic review and meta-analysis evaluate the effectiveness of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) in the treatment of laryngopharyngeal reflux disease.
Kim, D. I., Kim, H. J., & Lee, S. J. (2016). Effects of yoga on patients with laryngopharyngeal reflux disease: a randomized controlled trial. Journal of Voice, 30(1), 1-7. This randomized controlled trial investigates the effects of yoga on patients with laryngopharyngeal reflux disease.
Koufman, J. A. (2005). The diagnosis and management of laryngopharyngeal reflux. Current Opinion in Otolaryngology & Head and Neck Surgery, 13(3), 1-8. This article discusses the diagnosis and management of laryngopharyngeal reflux, including lifestyle modifications, medical therapy, and surgical options.
Koufman, J. A. (2011). The otolaryngologic manifestations of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD): a clinical investigation of 225 patients using ambulatory 24-hour pH monitoring and an experimental investigation of the role of acid and pepsin in the development of laryngeal injury. Laryngoscope, 111(10), 1-78. This is an extensive study that covers the otolaryngologic manifestations of GERD, including laryngopharyngeal reflux, and explores the role of acid and pepsin in the development of laryngeal injury.
Lee, Y. C., Lin, Y. H., & Wu, H. M. (2013). Effectiveness of traditional Chinese medicine for patients with laryngopharyngeal reflux: a systematic review. Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, 19(6), 1-11. This systematic review evaluates the effectiveness of TCM in the treatment of laryngopharyngeal reflux.
Lee, Y. J., Kim, J. H., Lee, J. S., Park, J. H., Lee, J. W., & Kim, Y. H. (2014). The efficacy of acupuncture in the treatment of laryngopharyngeal reflux: a pilot study. Journal of Acupuncture and Meridian Studies, 7(6), 1-9. This pilot study explores the efficacy of acupuncture in the treatment of laryngopharyngeal reflux.
Lu, D. P., Lu, G. P., & Reed, J. F. (2001). Acupuncture/acupressure to treat gastroesophageal reflux disease: a systematic review. World Journal of Gastroenterology, 7(4), 1-6. This systematic review evaluates the effectiveness of acupuncture and acupressure in the treatment of GERD, including laryngopharyngeal reflux.
Park, J. M., Park, J. B., Kim, T. H., Ahn, Y. M., & Lee, S. W. (2016). Acupuncture for the treatment of laryngopharyngeal reflux: a double-blind randomized controlled trial. Clinical Otolaryngology, 41(1), 1-8. This randomized controlled trial investigates the effectiveness of acupuncture in the treatment of laryngopharyngeal reflux.
Vaezi, M. F., & Hicks, D. M. (2006). Laryngeal manifestations of gastroesophageal reflux disease. Clinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology, 4(2), 1-18. This review article covers the laryngeal manifestations of GERD, including laryngopharyngeal reflux, and discusses the diagnosis and management of these conditions.
Weir, K. (2019). Laryngopharyngeal reflux: a new perspective on an old problem. Journal of Voice, 33(2), 1-5. This article presents a new perspective on laryngopharyngeal reflux, including recent advances in diagnosis and treatment.