Silent reflux Silent reflux is a condition in which stomach acid causes throat discomfort, especially behind the breastbone in the middle of the trunk. It does not always cause heartburn, but it can cause damage to the throat and vocal cords. The condition is always known as laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR). LPR has the name "silent reflux" due to not necessarily triggering the usual symptoms of acid reflux, such as heartburn. However, silent reflux can lead to hoarseness, frequent throat-clearing, and coughing. Symptoms: feeling like something is stuck in the throat hoarseness frequent throat clearing coughing a bitter taste at the back of the throat difficulty swallowing swelling and irritation of vocal cords a sensation of post-nasal drip breathing difficulties Treatment: Many adults manage to control symptoms by adjusting their eating habits and making lifestyle changes. Medications to treat silent reflux, such as antacids, are available over the counter (OTC). These can help prevent the acid from returning to the esophagus. H2-blockers, a form of anti-histamine, might help, especially if a cough bothers the person at night. If antacids do not work, a doctor may prescribe a proton pump inhibitor (PPI), such as omeprazole, to reduce stomach acidity. A person with LPR can use these for between 4 weeks and 6 months. Adults often have a cold or the flu before they develop LPR. These conditions may make the vocal cords more sensitive to stomach acid. Lifestyle risk factors include: overeating frequently consuming alcohol, spicy and fatty food, and sodas smoking being overweight Complications: In adults, damage to the vocal cords can occur if a person does not receive treatment for LPR. In the long term, it can lead to: lung and breathing disorders recurrent pneumonia chronic cough persistent or repeated laryngitis oral cavity disorders It may also increase the risk of cancer of the larynx. Natural remedies: avoiding tobacco chewing gum that contains sodium bicarbonate losing weight, if appropriate raising the head of the bed so that gravity helps prevent reflux wearing loose clothing bending the knees when picking objects up, to reduce pressure on the stomach It might help to avoid mint and mint-flavored foods. swallowing instead of coughing breathing out forcefully instead of coughing gently tapping the vocal cords together taking a sip of water Diet: drinking plenty of fluids, including water and herbal teas avoiding fried and fatty foods, chocolate, alcohol, and caffeine avoid foods that increase acidity, such as tomatoes, citrus fruits, and sodas eating smaller meals more often, and chewing well not eating within 2 hours of going to bed Ways to prevent acid reflux include: eating smaller amounts more frequently avoiding bending, singing, or exercise for at least 2 hours after eating waiting at least 3 hours to lie down after eating Silent reflux is easily preventable and treatable with the right measures. Return