The Link Between Acid Reflux & Sore Throat: Causes & Treatments

If you’re experiencing a sore throat from acid reflux, you’re not alone. Acid reflux, also known as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), occurs when stomach acid flows back into the esophagus, causing irritation and inflammation. When this acid reaches the throat, it can lead to symptoms like hoarseness, soreness, and even the sensation of a lump in the throat. In this post, we will explore the connection between acid reflux and sore throats, highlight their causes, and discuss effective treatments.

Can Acid Reflux Cause Sore Throat?

The short answer is yes. Acid reflux can cause sore throat when stomach acid irritates the lining of the throat. This can lead to a range of symptoms, including:

• Hoarseness
• Sore throat, particularly in the mornings
• Lump-like sensation in the throat
• Coughing and difficulty speaking

These symptoms are common in a specific type of acid reflux known as laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR), which affects the throat and voice box. Sore throat from acid reflux often worsens after eating spicy or acidic foods, lying down shortly after meals, or during the night.

Causes of Acid Reflux  

1. Diet: Eating spicy, acidic, or fatty foods can trigger acid reflux symptoms. 
2. Lifestyle: Smoking, alcohol consumption, and obesity can increase the risk of developing acid reflux. 
3. Pregnancy: Hormonal changes during pregnancy can cause the LES to relax, leading to acid reflux. 
4. Hiatal hernia: A hiatal hernia occurs when part of the stomach protrudes through the diaphragm into the chest cavity, making acid reflux more likely. 

How to Get Rid of Acid Reflux in Throat Fast

If you’re struggling with throat irritation due to acid reflux, consider these quick remedies to alleviate symptoms:

1. Drink water: A glass of water can help dilute stomach acid and flush it down from the esophagus.
2. Chew gum: Sugar-free gum stimulates saliva production, which can neutralise stomach acid.
3. Avoid acidic or spicy foods: These can aggravate symptoms and increase irritation.
4. Use over-the-counter antacids: Antacids can quickly neutralise acid, offering fast relief.
5. Stay upright: Avoid lying down immediately after eating to prevent acid from flowing into the throat.

While these measures can provide temporary relief, consult a doctor for a long-term treatment plan.

Types of Acid Reflux   

• GERD is the more common type and occurs when stomach acid flows back up into the esophagus, causing irritation and inflammation. Symptoms of GERD may include heartburn, regurgitation, and chest pain. 
• LPR occurs when the acid refluxes all the way up to the throat and affects the voice box and the throat. Symptoms of LPR may include a sore throat, coughing, and a hoarse voice. While both types of acid reflux have similar underlying causes and treatments, LPR may require additional diagnostic tests and treatment options due to its impact on the throat and vocal cords.  

See a doctor if you experience symptoms of either type of acid reflux to receive an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan. 

Diagnosis of Acid Reflux   

If you experience symptoms of acid reflux, it is important to see a doctor to determine the underlying cause. Your doctor may perform a physical exam and ask about your medical history and symptoms. They may also recommend tests and procedures to diagnose acid reflux, including: 

• Endoscopy: A procedure that uses a thin, flexible tube with a camera to view the inside of the esophagus and stomach. 
• pH monitoring: A test that measures the amount of acid in the esophagus over a 24-hour period. 
• Barium swallow: A test that uses X-rays to view the esophagus and stomach after drinking a barium solution. 
• Urea breath test: To detect the presence of a bacteria Helicobacter Pylori (H pylori), which can cause inflammation and sometimes acid reflux. 

Treatments for Acid Reflux

The treatment for acid reflux usually involves a combination of lifestyle changes and medication. The goal of treatment is to reduce the amount of acid in the stomach and prevent it from flowing back up into the esophagus. 

1. Lifestyle Changes 

Making changes to the diet and lifestyle can help reduce the symptoms of acid reflux. Some of the lifestyle changes that can help include: 

• Eating smaller, more frequent meals 
• Avoiding spicy, acidic, or fatty foods 
• Quitting smoking 
• Reducing alcohol consumption 
• Losing weight if overweight or obese 

2. Medications 

• Antacids: These medications neutralize stomach acid and provide quick relief for mild symptoms. 
• H2 blockers: These medications reduce the amount of acid that the stomach produces, providing longer-lasting relief from symptoms. 
• Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs): These medications reduce the amount of acid the stomach produces, providing long-term relief from symptoms. A combination of proton pump inhibitors and antibiotics to treat H pylori, if it is detected.

3. Surgery 

In severe cases of acid reflux, surgery may be necessary to repair the LES or strengthen it. Surgery is usually only considered if other treatments have failed or if there are complications from acid reflux. 

Prevention of Acid Reflux 

• Eating smaller, more frequent meals 
• Avoiding spicy, acidic, or fatty foods 
• Quitting smoking 
• Reducing alcohol consumption 
• Losing weight if overweight or obese 
• Elevating the head of the bed while sleeping 
• Waiting at least three hours after eating before lying down or going to bed 

Is Spicy Food Good for Sore Throat?

Spicy foods may benefit some types of sore throats caused by colds or infections due to their ability to promote mucus flow. However, for sore throats caused by acid reflux, spicy foods can worsen irritation. It’s best to avoid them and instead focus on a soothing diet to manage symptoms.

A Mixed Approach to Treating Acid Reflux and Sore Throat 

Acid reflux is a common digestive disorder that can cause a range of symptoms, including a sore throat. When acid reflux reaches the throat, it can cause irritation and inflammation, leading to a sore throat, hoarseness, and a feeling of a lump in the throat. The causes of acid reflux include diet, lifestyle factors, pregnancy, and hiatal hernia.  

Treatment for acid reflux involves a combination of lifestyle changes and medication to reduce the amount of acid in the stomach and prevent it from flowing back up into the esophagus. If you are experiencing symptoms of acid reflux, it is important to see a doctor to determine the underlying cause and develop an appropriate treatment plan.