4.3.3
Laryngopharyngeal Reflux
Malawi Standard Treatment Guidelines, 6th Edition, 2023. Chapter 4, Ear, Nose and Throat Conditions.
Clinical Description
LPR is the retrograde (backward) movement of stomach enzymes (Pepsin) and acid into the lower throat region.
Signs and Symptoms
- Excessive throat-clearing
- Persistent dry cough
- Sore throats not associated with a cold
- Hoarseness, or globes pharynges (feeling of a lump in the throat).
Non-pharmacological
- Dietary modification
- Avoid Caffeine, alcohol, chocolates, and peppermints, Citrus fruits, pineapples, tomatoes (and other acidic foods), and hot spices.
- Lifestyle changes
- Smaller and more frequent feedings
- Stop eating at least three hours before going to bed
- Avoid wearing tight fitting clothes
- Lose weight if needed
Pharmacological
- Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs) are the most effective medicines for the treatment of LPR. PPIs must be taken on an empty stomach, 1⁄2 hour before a meal.
Check doses against the printed guideline and your clinical judgement before treating a patient. Spotted an error? Report it from the contact links below.
Need this without data?
The app holds every guideline on your device, with calculators, bookmarks and notes.