LPR (laryngopharyngeal reflux) affects 50 million Americans, and you may be one, as it causes many symptoms and can lead to cancer.
LPR is frequently misdiagnosed as an allergy, sinus infection or asthma.
Below are links to articles about this common problem that sometimes presents with frightening symptoms such as a choking sensation or difficulty inhaling.
Of course, it’s vital to realize that you just can’t assume with 100 percent confidence that your symptoms mean LPR.
LPR can mimic other conditions; you need a professional diagnosis.
LPR symptoms like chronic throat clearing and a lumpy feeling there are distinct from typical acid reflux.
But a definitive diagnosis involves specialized testing.
An example is the 24-hour dual probe pH-impedance study; this will show the presence of acid and non-acid reflux in the throat.
But keep in mind that acid refluxing into the throat is a common situation.
Your symptoms may likely mean LPR. However, if they persist or if they don’t respond to over the counter medication and especially a prescription medication for reflux, you should see an E.N.T. physician.
I interviewed an E.N.T. physician for these articles.
Telling the difference between LPR and cancer of the throat
Can an LPR choking episode be fatal?
What to do about the acid reflux in your nose
Vocal vord dysfunction: real or fake?
Is your LPR a pain in the neck (literally)?
