Laryngopharyngeal Reflux (LPR): My Experience & What’s Helping

For months, I struggled with a persistent dry cough, hoarseness, and the constant need to clear my throat. I chalked it up to allergies, maybe postnasal drip, or stress. But after a visit to an ENT and a flexible laryngoscopy, I was diagnosed with Laryngopharyngeal Reflux (LPR)—a form of acid reflux that doesn’t always cause heartburn. Instead, it affects the throat and voice box, earning it the nickname “silent reflux.”

Unlike GERD, which typically causes chest burning, LPR symptoms are more subtle and often misdiagnosed. In my case, they included:

• Hoarseness and voice changes
• Chronic throat clearing
• A dry, tickly cough
• Sensation of a lump in the throat
• Excess mucus and postnasal drip
• Occasional sore throat and difficulty swallowing

These symptoms mimicked sinus issues and seasonal allergies, making it difficult to pinpoint the cause. But once I had a diagnosis, I began researching treatment options and building a plan that worked for me.

What Causes Laryngopharyngeal Reflux (LPR)?

LPR occurs when both the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) and upper esophageal sphincter (UES) fail to keep stomach contents from rising into the throat. According to ENT Health, several factors can contribute to this:

• Acidic foods and beverages (coffee, citrus, alcohol, chocolate)
• Eating large meals or lying down too soon after eating
• Tight clothing around the waist
• Certain medications (NSAIDs, antidepressants, calcium channel blockers)
• Conditions like hiatal hernia, obesity, and pregnancy

For me, the most significant triggers were citrus, caffeine, and late-night eating.

How I Was Diagnosed

My ENT doctor performed a flexible laryngoscopy to examine my throat and vocal cords. This procedure allowed them to see signs of inflammation and irritation consistent with reflux and rule out other conditions. This diagnostic tool is part of the Stanford ENT Clinic LPR Protocol, which outlines a comprehensive approach to identifying and treating LPR.

What’s Helping Me

Managing LPR requires a multi-pronged approach. I’ve made several lifestyle changes and added targeted treatments that have made a noticeable difference.

Lifestyle Adjustments

• Avoiding trigger foods: I cut out citrus, chocolate, spicy meats, and anything acidic.
• Smaller meals: I eat less at each sitting and avoid eating within 3 hours of bedtime.
• Elevating my head while sleeping: I use a wedge pillow to keep my upper body raised, which helps prevent nighttime reflux.
• Staying upright after meals: No bending, singing, or exercising for at least an hour after eating.
• Reducing caffeine and alcohol: These were tough to give up, but worth it.

These changes are supported by Stanford Health, which emphasizes behavioral modifications as a key part of LPR management.

Medications & Soothing Agents

• Pepcid (famotidine): I take this before bed to help control nighttime acid production. It’s an H2 blocker that’s gentler than PPIs and effective for my symptoms.
• Reflux Gourmet: This alginate-based formula coats the throat and creates a barrier against acid. I take it after meals and again before bed. It’s soothing and has become a staple in my routine.
• Occasional antacids: I use them sparingly, mainly before voice-heavy days or presentations.

Treatment typically lasts 4–6 months, and symptom relief often comes before complete visual healing. Consistency is key.

Final Thoughts

LPR can be frustrating and disruptive—mainly when it affects your voice, sleep, and daily comfort. But with the proper diagnosis and a tailored plan, relief is possible. I’ve learned that small changes add up, and that being proactive makes all the difference.

If you’re experiencing similar symptoms, don’t ignore them. Talk to an ENT, explore your triggers, and consider adding tools like Pepcid and Reflux Gourmet to your routine. Elevating your head while sleeping and adjusting your diet can also go a long way.

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Last updated on January 11th, 2026 at 12:39 pm