Gastroesophageal Reflux
Gastroesophageal reflux is a commonly overlooked cause of throat complaints. Especially at night when people sleep, acidic gastric contents can flow through the esophagus to the throat, irritating the throat and voicebox. Frequent complaints include hoarseness, a feeling of a lump in the throat, sore throat, indigestion and heartburn. Less frequently complaints include an acidic taste in the mouth or a history of ulcers. Fortunately, the treatment of gastroesophageal reflux is straightforward.
- Avoid late meals and going to bed with a full stomach
Avoid caffeine (coffee, tea, colas and certain carbonated beverages, chocolate and after-dinner mints)
Avoid spicy, fatty or fried foods
Avoid tobacco
The three preceding substances can weaken the valve between the stomach and the esophagus, thus promoting reflux.
- Over-the-counter antacids (Tums®, Mylanta®) should be taken at bedtime and, if symptoms are severe, after meals. Gaviscon Foamtabs® seem to be particularly effective for this problem.
- Weight loss in many instances will reduce reflux.
- Eliminate symptoms by recruiting gravity. The head of the bed can be elevated six to eight inches with blocks, or a foam wedge can be placed on the mattress. This puts the torso on an incline, keeping the acid in the stomach.
- In some cases an anti-ulcer medication (Pepcid®, Prevacid®, Prilosec®, Zantac®, Nexium®, Protonix®, Aciphex®) is needed to reduce stomach acid.
- Consultation with a gastroenterologist may be necessary if symptoms persist.
Please notify the office 585-256-3550 for any concerns. We are here to help in any way we can.
Dr. John U. Coniglio and Staff
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