LPR is considered a subtype of GERD.
Both conditions can lead to symptoms that affect the throat and other organs.
Understanding GERD and LPR
LPR is an inflammatory condition that affects the upper esophagus.
LPR is a challenging condition to manage, and there are no standards for diagnosis or treatment.
It is sometimes called “silent reflux” because the symptoms differ fromheartburnorGERD.
It is common and often treated with lifestyle changes and medication.
However, almost half of the people diagnosed with GERD don’t find relief with commonly used medications.
Can You Have Both?
LPR and GERD are considered to be different conditions.
In GERD, only the lower sphincter is weakened.
People with LPR may have symptoms only of that condition, or they may also have symptoms of GERD.
To have LPR, stomach acids must travel up through the lower and upper esophageal sphincters.
LPR is sometimes considered an “extraesophageal” (outside of the esophagus) complication of GERD.
LPR may affect the voice box and sinuses, but there could also be no symptoms.
GERD may cause heartburn, regurgitation, or chest pain.
Is One Worse?
LPR and GERD are related conditions, and they both cause symptoms that can significantly affect quality of life.
Whether one condition is worse than the other may depend on the person’s personal experience and outlook.
LPR, however, is less recognized and has fewer options for diagnosis and treatment than GERD.
A primary care or family healthcare provider may be the first to assess symptoms.
Making changes to meals could help avoid some symptoms.
People usually need trial and error to figure out what may help.
Some of thelifestyle changesfor LPR and GERD are similar.
Home Remedies
Some foods may help avoid or prevent symptoms.
Antacids
Antacids neutralize stomach acid and can be taken to relieve symptoms.
They are available OTC.
These medications come with various combinations of active ingredients.
If you need them daily, talk to a healthcare provider.
These medications help with symptoms by lowering the amount of acid produced by the stomach.
They are available both OTC and as prescription medications.
H2 blockers can relieve unexpected heartburn and other acid-related symptoms.
They include:
PPIs are more often chosenfor treating LPR and GERD because they tend to be more effective.
They should be taken daily to provide ongoing symptom relief.
When a healthcare provider prescribes them, the dosage may be higher than the over-the-counter versions.
In addition, the dosage prescribed for LPR may be higher than that for GERD.
Acid in the throat and inflammation could cause other problems in the long term.
LPR may be associated with other conditions, such as:
GERD may also be associated with long-term risks.
The Effect of LPR on Mental Health
LPR is associated with more quality-of-life issues than GERD.
The social, physical, emotional, and functional burden of LPR is shown to be significant.
Rates of depression and anxiety are also higher.
People with LPR take more sick time than those with GERD, and the condition impacts their work life.
In addition, those with LPR are less satisfied with their treatment options.
Often, lifestyle changes are for the long term and are meant to prevent flare-ups.
Elevating the head of the bed while sleeping and avoiding eating before lying down might also be helpful.
Some people invest inpillows or other devicesto prop up the head of the bed.
Summary
LPR and GERD are related but have different symptoms.
Symptoms can overlap, which is why a diagnosis from a healthcare provider is important.
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