Acid reflux, commonly known as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), is when stomach acid rushes backward into the esophagus. While reflux is commonly linked with heartburn and indigestion, many people are unaware that it may create issues outside of the digestive tract, namely in the throat. Over time, acid exposure in your esophagus can cause inflammation of fragile throat tissues, resulting in persistent pain, hoarseness, and possibly vocal cord damage.
Our physicians at Otolaryngology Associates of Tennessee (OAT) have direct experience with the effects of acid reflux on the throat. Our ear, nose, and throat experts offer cutting-edge diagnosis and treatment choices, building on over a century of community-focused care. Our expert ENT specialists provide tailored care that helps patients safeguard their throat health and provide long-term comfort.
Understanding Acid and Laryngopharyngeal Reflux
Acid reflux (GERD) occurs when stomach acid rushes back up into your esophagus because the lower esophageal sphincter does not close correctly. This acid reflux generates a burning sensation in your chest known as heartburn. However, acid reflux does not always end at your chest; it can also reach your throat and voice box, aggravating those tissues.
While GERD usually causes heartburn and indigestion, a similar ailment known as laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR) affects the throat and voice box directly. In LPR, stomach acid passes through the upper esophageal sphincter and into the larynx, voice cords, and throat. If left untreated, persistent LPR can cause inflammation of the vocal folds (laryngitis) and possibly the formation of granulomas on the vocal cords.
If you regularly get a painful or burning throat, contact Otolaryngology Associates of Tennessee in Nashville, TN, to book an appointment with an ENT doctor.
How Reflux Triggers ENT Problems
When acidic stomach contents enter the esophagus and throat, they could damage more than just the food pipe. Even small amounts of acid can irritate the throat (pharynx) and voice box. This irritation can cause inflammation of the vocal cords and the throat lining. If left untreated, this continual irritation can result in chronic laryngitis, vocal cord injury, ulcers, and scar tissue in the throat or esophagus. Recognizing acid reflux as the cause of these ENT disorders is the first step toward effective therapy.
When to See an ENT Doctor
How do you know if acid reflux is affecting your throat or other ENT areas? Here are some common signs and symptoms to watch for:
Persistent sore throat
Hoarseness or voice changes
Chronic cough, frequent throat clearing, or excess throat mucus
A feeling of a lump in the throat
Difficulty swallowing
Ear pain, pressure, or sinus issues
If you notice several of these symptoms and they continue or recur, acid reflux might be the cause. An ENT specialist can examine your throat directly (typically with a small scope) for signs of redness, swelling, or stomach acid injury. They will offer a personalized treatment strategy based on their findings. If your voice is impaired, they may also provide advice on how to recover it. By addressing the reflux properly, you can get relief and protect your throat for the long term.
If these symptoms sound familiar, don’t ignore them! Reach out to OAT in Nashville, TN, to schedule an appointment, and let one of our specialists determine the cause and give you effective treatment.
Treatment Options for Reflux-Related Throat Issues
Reflux-related ENT disorders can be effectively managed with lifestyle modifications, medicines, and in some cases, surgical treatments.
Lifestyle Modifications: Avoid trigger foods (spicy, fatty, or acidic items), eat smaller meals earlier in the evening, and elevate the head of your bed.
Medications: Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) and H2 blockers lower acid production, while antacids provide rapid relief from heartburn.
Voice Therapy: If reflux has stretched the vocal cords, a speech-language pathologist can teach ways to reduce vocal abuse.
Surgical Options: For individuals with severe reflux who do not respond to medication, surgeries such as fundoplication may be needed.
Consulting an ENT doctor ensures you receive the right balance of therapies to protect your throat and voice.
Professional Reflux Relief in Nashville, TN
If you’re in Nashville, TN, and suspect your throat issues stem from reflux rather than a simple infection, don’t hesitate to seek specialized care. Otolaryngology Associates of Tennessee combines decades of expertise with state‑of‑the‑art diagnostics to restore your throat health and protect your voice. Our ENT doctors provide comprehensive throat care, from accurate diagnosis of reflux-related problems to effective treatment, for lasting relief. Whether you need an endoscopic exam, pH testing, or ongoing follow‑up care, you’ll find that our expert ear, nose, and throat doctors are dedicated to your health.
Contact our ENT doctors in Nashville, TN, today and let us put an end to your reflux-related throat issues so you can enjoy life symptom-free. Visit our website or call us at (615) 340 - 4000 to learn how our ENT specialists can resolve your throat pain.
