Reflux Treatment
What is Reflux?
Laryngopharyngeal Reflux Disease (LPR), also known as “silent reflux,” is a condition in which stomach acid backs up into the throat, voice box, or into the back of the nasal airways; which results in the inflammation of these areas.
Patients with reflux often take non-prescription drugstore medications for acid reflux or to stop heartburn; however, these are only meant to be taken as a temporary measure and not a permanent solution. When the issue becomes chronic, it’s time to see a doctor.
Processed foods often contain acids that are used in preservatives. Over time, these acids can eat away at the esophagus, sometimes resulting in esophageal cancer. A screening known as Transnasal Esophagoscopy (TNE) is offered here at ENT Institute that can check for cancer and other esophagus-related disorders.
Acid Reflux Treatment at the ENT Institute
Factors
- Overeating
- Strenuous exercise
- Heavy lifting
- Obesity
- Aging
- Alcohol
How Do You Know if You Have Reflux?
At The Ear, Nose & Throat Institute in Atlanta, a qualified physician will perform one of the following tests to determine how much acid is in your airways:
- Transnasal esophagoscopy (TNE), a through-the-nose examination of the esophagus.
- Restech Test, involves the insertion of a small probe through your nose and into the back of your throat.
- Bravo Esophageal pH Test, involves attaching a small capsule (about the size of a gel cap) to the wall of the esophagus during an upper endoscopy.
How Do You Treat Reflux?
Lifestyle changes and/or medications to neutralize stomach acid are generally enough to allow patients to manage reflux disease. In some patients, these changes are not enough. If this is the case for you, your physician may recommend other treatment options, including surgery. If your symptoms point to LPR, please contact the Atlanta Laryngopharyngeal Reflux (LPR) & Silent Reflux Treatment Center at 770-740-1860 to schedule an exam if you are in the area, including Lawrenceville and Alpharetta.