LPR is also called “silent reflux” because it does not necessarily cause the same symptoms as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Many people do not experience heartburn or indigestion.
Almost all people with LPR experience hoarseness, which is the main symptomatic difference between LPR and GERD. Other potential symptoms include:
• feeling like something is stuck in the throat
• frequent throat clearing
• coughing, particularly after eating or lying down
• a bitter taste at the back of the throat
• eustachian tube dysfunction
• voice changes
• a sensation of postnasal drip
• difficulty swallowing
• heartburn
• breathing difficulties or episodes of choking
Symptoms in children and infants
The symptoms of silent reflux in infants and children may include:
• coughing
• vomiting
• failure to grow and gain weight
• asthma
• a sore throat
• hoarseness
• noisy breathing
• ear infections
• feeding difficulties
• turning blue
• aspiration, or inhaling food and other particles into the lungs
It is common for infants to spit up, but problems with breathing and feeding could indicate a more serious health problem. A doctor should investigate these symptoms. Children with silent reflux will not always vomit or regurgitate.
Some symptoms, such as projectile vomiting or blood in vomit, could also indicate other health problems. Visit a healthcare professional if these symptoms appear.
Researchers are currently exploring possible links between silent reflux in children and recurrent ear infections and sinusitis.
What causes silent reflux?
LPR symptoms occur because stomach acid regurgitates into the throat.
In infants, the muscular valves at the end of the food pipe are stillTrusted Source developing. These valves keep the contents of the stomach from flowing back into the food pipe. This is why infants spit up so often, especially with a full stomach.
Certain factors may increase the risk of developing LPR, includingTrusted Source:
• a diet with lots of acidic or fatty foods
• caffeine and alcohol
• eating large portions just before sleeping
• obesity
• smoking
To diagnose LPR, a doctor will askTrusted Source about symptoms and medical history. They will also carry out a physical examination and possibly some laboratory tests.
Additional tests for LPR might include a barium X-ray and an examination of the stomach and food pipe, which involves passing through the mouth a thin, flexible tube with a camera on the end.
Diagnosis of LPR in children and infants is challenging, and there are no standardized diagnostic criteria. However, a healthcare professional may request an endoscopy of the gut if concerning symptoms are present, such as:
• a failure to thrive without visible vomiting
• swallowing difficulties
• a dislike of feeding
• unexplained distress
Treatment for silent reflux
People can oftenTrusted Source manage LPR symptoms by adjusting their eating habits and making lifestyle changes. However, a doctor may recommend the following medications for some people:
• antacids, which are available over-the-counter
• H2 histamine receptor antagonists, such as ranitidine (Zantac)
• proton pump inhibitors, such as omeprazole (Prilosec)
Reflux is common in children up to the age of 1 year, and only those who have difficulty feeding or breathing require treatment. A doctor may recommend changing the infant’s feeding habits and using age-appropriate medication.
In severe cases, or when another treatment has not been effective, tube feeding and surgery may be necessary.
Natural remedies for silent reflux
The following lifestyle changes may relieve symptoms of silent reflux:
• avoid tobacco
• chew gum that contains sodium bicarbonate
• achieve or maintain a moderate weight
• elevate the head when sleeping
• sit upright while eating
• avoid lying down immediately after eating
• wear loose clothing
Lifestyle changes that may help :
• feed the infant smaller, more regular meals
• keep the infant in an upright position for around 30 minutes after feeding
• closely monitor for signs of breathing or feeding trouble
• avoid exposure to secondhand smoke
If breathing or feeding problems develop, seek medical help.
Dietary changes to relieve silent reflux
Dietary changes that may relieve symptoms include:
• drinking plenty of fluids, including water and herbal teas
• avoiding fried and fatty foods, chocolate, alcohol, and caffeine
• avoid foods that increase acidity, such as tomatoes, citrus fruits, and sodas
• eating smaller meals more often
• eating slowly and chewing well
• avoiding exercise or lying down immediately after eating
Complications of silent reflux
In adults, damage to the vocal cords can occur if a person does not receive treatment for LPR. In the long term, it can lead to:
• recurrent pneumonia
• chronic cough
• persistent or repeated laryngitis
• oral cavity disorders
• ulcers, CANCER OF THE LARYNX
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