The Link Between Acid Reflux & Sore Throat: Causes & Treatments

Reviewed by Dr. Namrata Arora

Acid reflux, also known as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), is a common digestive disorder affecting millions worldwide. At times, acid reflux can present as a sore throat. In this blog, we will discuss the link between acid reflux and sore throat, the causes of acid reflux, and the treatments available to alleviate the symptoms. 

The link between acid reflux and sore throat 

Acid reflux occurs when stomach acid flows back into the esophagus, causing irritation and inflammation. When the acid reaches the throat, it can cause a sore throat, hoarseness, and a feeling of a lump in the throat. These symptoms may worsen in the morning or after meals, especially if the person has eaten spicy or acidic foods. 

The sore throat caused by acid reflux is often called acid reflux laryngitis or Laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR). LPR is a type of acid reflux that affects the voice box and the throat. In LPR, the acid refluxes up to the throat and causes various symptoms, including a sore throat, coughing, and a hoarse voice. 

Causes of Acid Reflux  

1. Diet: Eating spicy, acidic, or fatty foods can trigger acid reflux symptoms. 
2. Lifestyle: Smoking, alcohol consumption, and obesity can increase the risk of developing acid reflux. 
3. Pregnancy: Hormonal changes during pregnancy can cause the LES to relax, leading to acid reflux. 
4. Hiatal hernia: A hiatal hernia occurs when part of the stomach protrudes through the diaphragm into the chest cavity, making acid reflux more likely. 

Types of Acid Reflux   

• GERD is the more common type and occurs when stomach acid flows back up into the esophagus, causing irritation and inflammation. Symptoms of GERD may include heartburn, regurgitation, and chest pain. 
• LPR occurs when the acid refluxes all the way up to the throat and affects the voice box and the throat. Symptoms of LPR may include a sore throat, coughing, and a hoarse voice. While both types of acid reflux have similar underlying causes and treatments, LPR may require additional diagnostic tests and treatment options due to its impact on the throat and vocal cords.  

See a doctor if you experience symptoms of either type of acid reflux to receive an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan. 

Diagnosis of Acid Reflux   

If you experience symptoms of acid reflux, it is important to see a doctor to determine the underlying cause. Your doctor may perform a physical exam and ask about your medical history and symptoms. They may also recommend tests and procedures to diagnose acid reflux, including: 

• Endoscopy: A procedure that uses a thin, flexible tube with a camera to view the inside of the esophagus and stomach. 
• pH monitoring: A test that measures the amount of acid in the esophagus over a 24-hour period. 
• Barium swallow: A test that uses X-rays to view the esophagus and stomach after drinking a barium solution. 
• Urea breath test: To detect the presence of a bacteria Helicobacter Pylori (H pylori), which can cause inflammation and sometimes acid reflux. 

Treatments for Acid Reflux

The treatment for acid reflux usually involves a combination of lifestyle changes and medication. The goal of treatment is to reduce the amount of acid in the stomach and prevent it from flowing back up into the esophagus. 

1. Lifestyle Changes 

Making changes to the diet and lifestyle can help reduce the symptoms of acid reflux. Some of the lifestyle changes that can help include: 

• Eating smaller, more frequent meals 
• Avoiding spicy, acidic, or fatty foods 
• Quitting smoking 
• Reducing alcohol consumption 
• Losing weight if overweight or obese 

2. Medications 

• Antacids: These medications neutralize stomach acid and provide quick relief for mild symptoms. 
• H2 blockers: These medications reduce the amount of acid that the stomach produces, providing longer-lasting relief from symptoms. 
• Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs): These medications reduce the amount of acid the stomach produces, providing long-term relief from symptoms. A combination of proton pump inhibitors and antibiotics to treat H pylori, if it is detected.

3. Surgery 

In severe cases of acid reflux, surgery may be necessary to repair the LES or strengthen it. Surgery is usually only considered if other treatments have failed or if there are complications from acid reflux. 

Prevention of Acid Reflux 

• Eating smaller, more frequent meals 
• Avoiding spicy, acidic, or fatty foods 
• Quitting smoking 
• Reducing alcohol consumption 
• Losing weight if overweight or obese 
• Elevating the head of the bed while sleeping 
• Waiting at least three hours after eating before lying down or going to bed 

Conclusion  

Acid reflux is a common digestive disorder that can cause a range of symptoms, including a sore throat. When acid reflux reaches the throat, it can cause irritation and inflammation, leading to a sore throat, hoarseness, and a feeling of a lump in the throat. The causes of acid reflux include diet, lifestyle factors, pregnancy, and hiatal hernia.  

Treatment for acid reflux involves a combination of lifestyle changes and medication to reduce the amount of acid in the stomach and prevent it from flowing back up into the esophagus. If you are experiencing symptoms of acid reflux, it is important to see a doctor to determine the underlying cause and develop an appropriate treatment plan.