How to Deal With Silent Reflux Disease in Adults

Laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR) is a destructive type of acid reflux that affects the pharynx (throat) and larynx (voice box) as well as the esophagus. LPR often lacks the common symptoms that present with acid reflux in adults, such as heartburn. Because of this, LPR also goes by the name silent reflux. In order to successfully deal with silent reflux you must stop any further damage from acid and heal the damage that the acid has already caused.

Instructions

• 1

  Lose the bad habits. Nicotine and caffeine stimulate acid production in the stomach, causing excess amounts of acid that can cause reflux problems. Alcohol also increases stomach acid while relaxing the sphincter that closes the esophagus. This relaxation allows easier access for the acid to enter the esophagus.

• 2

  Drop some weight. Extra weight puts pressure on the stomach, which squeezes acid upward.

• 3

  Use dietary changes. Foods play a big part in acid reflux. Foods such as citrus fruits, coffee, tomatoes and chocolate increase stomach acid production. Complex carbohydrates soak up acid, making them the best type of food for reducing excess stomach acid and reducing reflux.

• 4

  Change eating schedules. Eat five or six small meals a day rather than three large ones. Small amounts of food need less stomach acid for digestion.

• 5

  Take a Proton Pump Inhibitor (PPI). PPI's shut down the acid pumps in the stomach, preventing them from causing any more problems. Because PPI's work for extended time periods, the esophagus has time to heal. Doctors often use prescription PPI's to treat silent reflux, since they can raise the dosage for aggressive treatment.