Dealing with Laryngopharyngeal Reflux (LPR)

About 2x20mg for roughly 6 months.

Hey, anyone dealt with a throat that stays inflamed for ages—like, a month and a half straight? I’ve been slamming Prilosec 40 mg (twice a day) for about 20 days now, but honestly, nothing's changing... even after cutting back on certain foods.

It took me quite a while to get things under control. First, my throat calmed down after about a month and a half or two, but I definitely dealt with that "lump in the throat" sensation for another 4 or 5 months afterward.

During that entire stretch, I was taking a PPI alongside propolis, agave nectar, and some hyaluronic acid tablets to keep my throat hydrated. The agave nectar didn't do much for me, but the tablets and the propolis actually helped.

In the beginning, it was a total disaster—I was stuck eating nothing but liquid food for a solid month and a half. I remember even struggling to gulp down a glass of water; it was maddening because progress felt so slow. Thankfully, it hasn't happened again.

Douglas Grant26 said:It took me quite a while to get things under control. First, my throat calmed down after about a month and a half or two, but I definitely dealt with that "lump in the throat" sensation for another 4 or 5 months afterward.

During that entire stretch, I was taking a PPI alongside propolis, agave nectar, and some hyaluronic acid tablets to keep my throat hydrated. The agave nectar didn't do much for me, but the tablets and the propolis actually helped.

In the beginning, it was a total disaster—I was stuck eating nothing but liquid food for a solid month and a half. I remember even struggling to gulp down a glass of water; it was maddening because progress felt so slow. Thankfully, it hasn't happened again.

I've got that same lump in my throat sensation and occasional burping, and my throat is a total wreck. Did you have issues with your vocal cords? Speaking has been a nightmare for the last three weeks...

So, propolis won't make my Laryngopharyngeal reflux worse, right? Also, if you can find the name of those throat lozenges you used...

I don't recall having any issues more significant than my voice feeling slightly raspy.

Propolis didn't really help me; you can find it in sprays or drops, just make sure you grab an alcohol-free version at first so you don't irritate your throat even more.

I remember during that specific time I had almost no saliva production, which made swallowing even harder. For throat lozenges, I used gelRevoice, and those also help stimulate salivation.

Thanks a ton for the info! Hopefully things finally start looking up...

Three months ago, I was diagnosed with GERD, but it turns out I actually have LPR.
Prilosec didn't do much for me, but I found way more relief with Famotidine (an H2 blocker). Gaviscon helps too.
However, Eglonyl has been a massive help. It’s technically an antipsychotic, but at low doses, it’s used for gastrointestinal issues (2x50 mg). It calms down the gastric system, which in turn stops the acid reflux. Originally, it was actually used specifically for this purpose before they discovered it acted as an antipsychotic at higher doses. You can take it for longer periods. You might need to see a psychiatrist for a prescription—I'm not sure if a primary care physician can write it.
On top of that, I'm taking oregano oil capsules, Mastic chewing tablets (which are fantastic), fennel and lemon balm tea (with honey), and marshmallow root (because it helps clear mucus from the throat). I also take royal jelly.
Previously, due to oral thrush in my throat, I tried Zolazepam gel (minimal results), then switched to Diflucan tablets—that finally cleared it up.
All in all, I lost 6 kg at the start, but with this current regimen, things have improved significantly over the last two weeks.
Anyway, just thought I'd share in case this helps anyone. 🙂

Hey there!
Can anyone recommend a solid ENT specialist in Washington, D.C. who actually knows what they're doing regarding LPR? I've been dealing with LPR symptoms for years now, and honestly, after seeing several different doctors, my impression is that most of them just aren't properly informed about this specific issue. If someone could point me toward a truly knowledgeable physician, it would be a huge help 🙂

Also... It seems like our doctors here just keep prescribing inhibitors. Or they simply refer you to a gastroenterologist. After my gastroscopy, which showed nothing but significant bile reflux, I was referred for manometry and pH testing... I haven't managed to get those scheduled yet, but I suspect those two tests are vital when dealing with Laryngopharyngeal reflux.

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Zachary Gomez, thanks for getting back to me 🙂
Could you please let me know which gastroenterologist you saw? I've been reading that pH monitoring can be really helpful, but I haven't been able to find a single hospital that offers it—all I'm finding is information about it being done for kids. Do you have any leads on this? Is there a private clinic somewhere where I could actually get this done?

I noticed in one of your earlier posts that you use Gaviscon. Do you take it after every single meal? And how long is it safe to stay on it?

They perform 24-hour 2-channel pH testing at Holy Spirit... and privately over at Helena. As for gastroenterologists, I've heard Dr. Marušić is excellent, though I personally saw a female specialist first, followed by a younger doctor later on.

https://www.mayoclinic.org/departments-centers/gastroenterology

I haven't used Gaviscon in quite some time. Ever since we moved back from Denmark two years ago, I used to order it from the United Kingdom. Here in the States, Gaviscon works exactly the same way.

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Let me get this down in writing while it's fresh: try adding some chili to your diet. It contains capsaicin, an alkaloid that actually helps manage GERD and Laryngopharyngeal reflux. It’s great for general stomach issues overall.
The one caveat? If you're dealing with a stomach ulcer, steer clear. For everyone else, go for it.
My doctor confirmed that this is a well-established thing and that it really does work. Personally, it’s been a total game-changer for me.

hiddenlynx482 said:Laryngopharyngeal reflux—or LPR—is basically when stomach contents travel all the way up from the stomach, through the esophagus, and into the throat area. It’s a relatively new clinical concept that many doctors in everyday practice still overlook or mistake for atypical GERD.
Recent studies have actually linked this condition to various upper respiratory issues. It seems certain inflammatory conditions—like chronic laryngitis, pharyngitis, chronic rhinosinusitis, secretory otitis media, and laryngomalacia—are definitely tied to LPR. There's also evidence that a huge percentage of asthma patients deal with LPR, and it's incredibly common among those with laryngeal or pharyngeal cancers. The most frequent symptom is hoarseness (dysphonia), which shows up in about 92% to 100% of cases. I've noticed people who deal with intermittent hoarseness several times a year often complain about laryngitis that drags on for days or weeks. After that, the next most common symptom is constant throat clearing (seen in 50% of patients), followed by a sensation of something stuck in the throat—globus pharyngeus—at 33%, and dysphagia at 27%. LPR and GERD are actually quite different when you look at the symptoms, how they manifest, the underlying reflux mechanisms, the diagnostic criteria, and even the treatment approaches. Usually, LPR patients see an ENT, while GERD patients go to a gastroenterologist. The symptoms tell the story—LPR patients mostly don't deal with heartburn or regurgitation, whereas those with GERD almost always do. Hoarseness is the big one for LPR (92-100%), and you just don't see that with GERD. On the flip side, heartburn hits about 89% of GERD sufferers but only about 6% of those with LPR. So, essentially, LPR symptoms focus on the throat and larynx, while GERD is more of a gastrointestinal issue.

Is anyone else out there dealing with this? Honestly, the diet part is what's getting to me most—it's so hard to figure out my triggers since I don't get the typical heartburn or stomach pain that GERD patients do. Still, I'm stuck following the same restrictive diet as someone with GERD, and it's tough to accept that I might have to give up tomatoes and citrus forever and just rely on Vitamin C supplements. Does anyone know if it's possible to go back to a normal diet after finishing treatment?

Crystalmaiden, did you manage to resolve your LPR and throat issues? I've been dealing with similar problems for over four months now.

Thanks for responding.

Greetings, any updates here? I am particularly interested in the Reddit omerta situation, seeing as she actually has firsthand experience. An ENT specialist gave me a diagnosis and prescribed Prilosec. To be honest, I didn't take it very seriously at first since my symptoms weren't exactly overwhelming. I was under the impression it was just chronic sinus issues; I’ve ended up on antibiotics more times than I care to admit. However, this spring, I've had two distinct episodes where acid surged into my throat, leaving my throat looking quite red. Generally, there is a persistent sensation of dryness and that "lump in the throat" feeling, though it isn't debilitating. That said, my throat feels irritated and my tongue has developed a white coating. I have cut out coffee and alcohol entirely, and I don't smoke. I'm attempting to stick to boiled foods for now. What should my next move be? I already tested negative for H. pylori. While the discomfort isn't severe yet, I am genuinely anxious about the potential long-term consequences. I only took the Prilosec for a short period because it actually seemed to make things feel worse. Is an urgent endoscopy absolutely necessary? Thanks to everyone.

Zachary Gomez said:They perform 24-hour 2-channel pH testing at Holy Spirit... and privately over at Helena. As for gastroenterologists, I've heard Dr. Marušić is excellent, though I personally saw a female specialist first, followed by a younger doctor later on.

https://www.mayoclinic.org/departments-centers/gastroenterology

I haven't used Gaviscon in quite some time. Ever since we moved back from Denmark two years ago, I used to order it from the United Kingdom. Here in the States, Gaviscon works exactly the same way.

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I’m going out of my mind.
Your post helped me immensely. I’ve taken notes on everything. My issues involve tongue burning, a white coating on my tongue, nose, lips, and occasionally my ears (I have tinnitus too, though I have no idea if there's a connection).

Basically, all they ever prescribed me was Nexium, which actually made things worse. After taking it, my first episode of tongue burning hit—my tongue and mouth felt like they were on fire for three days and nights. They treated me with Zolazepam gel. Unfortunately, no one bothered to order any other tests.
I went to gastro before the surgery for my stomach and mild GERD.
I am certain this is all driven by stress and a poor diet.
I use a reflux pillow, watch what I eat, don't smoke, and avoid alcohol, soda, and coffee.
I need to reduce my intake, avoid lying down after meals, and eat smaller portions.
I take Vitamin D and B.
Chewable gum. Psyllium husk. Probiotics. Super enzymes.
I saw a psychiatrist regarding all of this and was prescribed Seroxat and Eglonyl (mentioned here!). Since it's a psych med, I'm terrified to take it.
Can anyone tell me what to expect once I take it? I'm very skittish when it comes to new medications.

Which ENT in Washington, D.C. should I see who actually understands LPR?

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So, I just had my follow-up appointment for my sinus issues and that nasal polyp. After a whole year of check-ups, the ENT finally asked me how things have been going. Honestly? I told him I'm dealing with constant post-nasal drip, and my nose feels so incredibly dry that I’ve been applying Nystatin and using Nasonex, but the spray actually makes my nose sting. He then asked if I was struggling with acid reflux, and I told him it only really kicks in if I eat something super spicy or even just a banana.
He basically told me straight up that I've got reflux, and his advice was to make sure my last meal of the day is finished by 8:00 PM—something light like a cracker and some fennel tea, with absolutely no sugar involved, so no honey either.

I'm curious, what kind of symptoms were you guys dealing with?

Nathan Diaz54 said:So, I just had my follow-up appointment for my sinus issues and that nasal polyp. After a whole year of check-ups, the ENT finally asked me how things have been going. Honestly? I told him I'm dealing with constant post-nasal drip, and my nose feels so incredibly dry that I’ve been applying Nystatin and using Nasonex, but the spray actually makes my nose sting. He then asked if I was struggling with acid reflux, and I told him it only really kicks in if I eat something super spicy or even just a banana.
He basically told me straight up that I've got reflux, and his advice was to make sure my last meal of the day is finished by 8:00 PM—something light like a cracker and some fennel tea, with absolutely no sugar involved, so no honey either.

I'm curious, what kind of symptoms were you guys dealing with?

Everything you mentioned, but for years. Like, 20 years.

Then about two years ago, this dull pain in my stomach area started. Stress, sitting at the computer for 8 hours, eating quickly during breaks, drinking water while eating, eating late. Everything you aren't supposed to do. But I never had acid issues.

Then two years ago, I took some stupid antibiotic I didn't even need, then my doctor prescribed Ibuprofen 600 for jaw pain—all unnecessary—and then the attacks of horrible pain began. My doctor said it was my gallbladder and I needed surgery.

The pain scared me so much I rushed into surgery. Turns out, I didn't even need my gallbladder removed.

And then came the burning sensation in my tongue, mouth, and nose, plus dry eyes.
It’s awful. Four different gastroenterologists gave me four different opinions, claiming it was fungal!
It isn't. It's acid burning me. Who knows if I even needed that gallbladder surgery.

Anyway, I need an ENT who actually knows how to diagnose Laryngopharyngeal reflux and what medication to take.
I had a gastroscopy before the surgery; mild GERD.

No one else requested any other tests. The most irritating part is the tongue burning after meals.
I don't know if it's the gallbladder, biliary reflux, or just acid...
I have to see a gastroenterologist at a major hospital again and start demanding tests so I can figure out the next steps.
I was taking Nexium (PPI), but it doesn't help me; it actually makes things worse.
I’ve changed my diet now. I don't eat after 6 PM, and I rinse my mouth with water and baking soda, which helps. I'm going to go buy Gaviscon.

But I need a recommendation for an ENT who actually understands this.

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If you haven't already, you really ought to schedule both an esophageal manometry and a 24-hour pH test. I had mine done at Mayo Clinic, though the waiting list to get an appointment can be a bit long...

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Greetings, Zachary Gomez. What did your diagnostic results actually show, and did they put you on any specific medications? What kind of symptoms are you battling right now, and what exactly
is providing you some relief?

Zachary Gomez said:If you haven't already, you really ought to schedule both an esophageal manometry and a 24-hour pH test. I had mine done at Mayo Clinic, though the waiting list to get an appointment can be a bit long...

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I practically had to beg my doctor for an appointment; it took seven months just to get seen. I'll look into those tests, assuming I even get through the queue before the New Year...
Anyway.
I picked up some Gaviscon for emergencies, and honestly, it helps.

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