Acid Reflux-Related Throat Inflammation: Treatment and Tips

Q: Acid Reflux-Related Throat Inflammation: Treatment and Tips

Hello： 1. Take on an empty stomach at a fixed time. 2. Long-term medication is not necessary; if symptoms improve, it is recommended to discontinue the medication. 3. In terms of diet, avoid tea leaves, coffee, soda, chocolate, sweets, glutinous rice products,

The doctor diagnosed me with laryngitis caused by gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)?

While studying in mainland China, I have been experiencing a sensation of a foreign body in my throat.
After consulting doctors there and taking numerous medications for pharyngitis without improvement, I visited an ENT specialist upon returning to Taiwan.
The doctor performed a laryngoscopy and diagnosed me with pharyngitis caused by gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).
He prescribed a medication called Emetrol (40 mg) and mentioned that it may take 3 to 6 months for recovery.
After taking it, the sensation in my throat has diminished, and at times, it is completely absent, although it occasionally recurs.
I have a few questions:
1.
The doctor advised me to take one tablet at a fixed time each day.
I didn’t clarify this at the time, so I would like to know whether this medication should be taken before meals, after meals, before bedtime, or upon waking in the morning for optimal effectiveness?
2.
I received a three-and-a-half-month supply of the medication and have been taking it for two months.
Although it has been effective and my symptoms are nearly gone, I still frequently experience the sensation of a foreign body in my throat at night.
I am concerned that once I finish this medication, I may not be fully healed.
If I visit a hospital in mainland China and receive a different brand of medication for GERD (which may have slight differences), would switching medications suddenly be problematic, or is it acceptable?
3.
What foods should I avoid or consume more of in my daily diet? Are there any specific dietary restrictions I should be aware of?

Mr. Hsu, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/10/07

Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Hello: 1.
Take on an empty stomach at a fixed time.
2.
Long-term medication is not necessary; if symptoms improve, it is recommended to discontinue the medication.
3.
In terms of diet, avoid tea leaves, coffee, soda, chocolate, sweets, glutinous rice products, high-fat/high-protein foods, overeating, smoking, drinking alcohol, chewing betel nut, chewing gum, and situations of emotional stress or being overweight/underweight.
Changhua Hospital cares about your health.
Dr.
Tsai An-shun.

Reply Date: 2017/10/07

More Info

Understanding acid reflux-related throat inflammation, commonly known as laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR), is essential for managing symptoms effectively. Your experience with throat discomfort and the subsequent diagnosis of acid reflux is not uncommon, and it’s good to hear that the medication prescribed has provided some relief. Let’s address your questions one by one.

1. Timing of Medication: The medication you mentioned, likely a proton pump inhibitor (PPI) or similar, is typically most effective when taken before meals. This is because these medications work by reducing stomach acid production, and taking them before eating allows them to be active when food is ingested, which can help prevent acid reflux. Generally, it is recommended to take these medications about 30 minutes to an hour before meals. If your doctor did not specify, it’s best to follow this guideline. If you experience nighttime symptoms, some patients find it beneficial to take their medication in the morning, while others may take it before dinner. It’s essential to find a routine that works best for you.

2. Switching Medications: If you find yourself needing to switch medications while in another country, it is generally acceptable, but there are a few considerations. Different brands may contain different inactive ingredients, and while the active ingredient may be the same, the formulation can affect absorption and efficacy. It’s advisable to consult a healthcare professional in the new location to ensure that the new medication is appropriate for your condition. If you have been stable on your current medication, it might be wise to continue it until you can consult a doctor in your new location. If you do switch, monitor your symptoms closely and report any significant changes to a healthcare provider.

3. Dietary Considerations: Diet plays a crucial role in managing acid reflux. It’s advisable to avoid foods that can trigger reflux symptoms. Common culprits include spicy foods, citrus fruits, tomatoes, chocolate, caffeine, and fatty or fried foods. Additionally, alcohol and carbonated beverages can exacerbate symptoms. Instead, focus on a diet rich in whole grains, lean proteins, vegetables, and non-citrus fruits. Eating smaller, more frequent meals rather than large meals can also help manage symptoms. It’s beneficial to maintain a food diary to identify any specific triggers that may worsen your throat discomfort.

In addition to medication and dietary changes, lifestyle modifications can significantly impact your symptoms. Here are some tips:
- Elevate the Head of Your Bed: If you experience nighttime symptoms, elevating the head of your bed can help prevent acid from flowing back into the throat while you sleep.

- Avoid Eating Before Bed: Try to avoid eating at least 2-3 hours before lying down to allow your stomach to empty.

- Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water can help dilute stomach acid and promote digestion.

- Manage Stress: Stress can exacerbate acid reflux symptoms, so incorporating stress-reduction techniques such as yoga, meditation, or deep-breathing exercises can be beneficial.

In summary, managing acid reflux-related throat inflammation involves a combination of medication, dietary adjustments, and lifestyle changes. It’s essential to communicate with healthcare providers about any concerns or changes in symptoms, especially when switching medications or experiencing persistent discomfort. By taking a proactive approach, you can effectively manage your symptoms and improve your quality of life.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Throat Pain: The Impact of Acid Reflux and Chronic Pharyngitis

Hello Doctor, I initially had a sore throat and cough, and after examination, the doctor assessed it as chronic pharyngitis, indicating that I have gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and post-nasal drip. Over the past month, I experienced some improvement that lasted for thre...

Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: Is your condition gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)? You should consult a gastroenterologist to evaluate whether an endoscopy is necessary. Changhua Hospital cares about your health. Dr. Tsai An-Shun.

Understanding Throat Inflammation: Causes, Treatments, and Concerns

Hello, doctor. I have had a throat inflammation for almost a month. I previously visited National Taiwan University Hospital, and the doctor said it was caused by acid reflux. I have been taking the medication as prescribed, but it doesn't seem to be improving much. Could th...

Dr. Zheng Jueyi reply Otolaryngology
Hello, if chronic pharyngitis is caused by gastroesophageal reflux, in addition to medication management, dietary control is also necessary. It often takes several months for symptoms to gradually improve. As for the white spots, it is recommended to rinse your mouth frequently a...

Understanding Medications for Acid Reflux: Effects and Dietary Considerations

Hello, doctor. I have been experiencing discomfort and a sensation of a foreign body in my throat due to acid reflux. After undergoing a laryngoscopy, the physician prescribed several medications, including: betamine, ranitidine 150mg, pinazepam 5mg, melflam 7.5mg, telfast 180mg,...

Dr. Chen Qifeng reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: Based on the symptoms, it appears to be gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). It is recommended to visit a gastroenterologist for an upper endoscopy. If GERD is confirmed, treatment may require only one pill per day. Regarding diet and lifestyle, it is advised to avoid s...

Understanding Esophageal Inflammation and GERD: Key Insights

Hello, Doctor. In August, I underwent an endoscopy and was diagnosed with grade B gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), with signs of esophagitis. Today, I had a laryngopharyngeal examination, and there are still signs of redness (as the doctor mentioned). I would like to ask: ...

Dr. Hu Kexin reply Otolaryngology
A nasopharyngoscope examination does not visualize the esophagus, so the "red appearance" you mentioned may not be related to the esophagus. If acid-reducing medications can suppress gastric reflux, the esophagus may no longer be exposed to gastric acid irritation, and ...