Reflux

At Montefiore Einstein Otorhinolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery, you can access exceptional care for reflux. As a global leader in otorhinolaryngology and head and neck surgery, we are an academic-based, national and international referral site for the most complex and high-risk cases. For over a century, we have been at the forefront of innovation, research and clinical care for ear, nose and throat (ENT) and head and neck conditions.

Ranked in the top 1% of all hospitals in the nation for complex specialty care according to U.S. News & World Report, Montefiore Einstein continues to make advances in the diagnosis and treatment of ENT and head and neck conditions. Our multidisciplinary team of world-renowned specialists has pioneered many of the otorhinolaryngological techniques used today and is passionate about uncovering the latest diagnostic approaches and treatments that can improve outcomes.

At Montefiore Einstein Otorhinolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery, you can expect compassionate, personalized, research-driven treatment plans that meet the highest standards for quality and safety.

When you need reflux care, turn to our dedicated multidisciplinary team for a personalized treatment plan.

Both GERD and LPR are caused by the backward flow of stomach material into the esophagus, throat and voice box. This reflux is often caused by a weakened or malfunctioning lower esophageal sphincter (LES) or upper esophageal sphincter (UES). Contributing factors include:

• Dietary triggers, including spicy, acidic, fatty or caffeinated foods, which can relax the LES and increase reflux episodes
• Lifestyle factors, including obesity, pregnancy, smoking and alcohol use, which can exacerbate both GERD and LPR
• Structural issues, e.g. hiatal hernia, where the stomach pushes through the diaphragm, weakening the LES

Symptoms of GERD and LPR can vary widely, ranging from heartburn to more subtle throat and voice conditions.

Symptoms of GERD include:

• Chronic cough, chest pain or a sensation of a lump in the throat
• Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia)
• Persistent heartburn, especially after eating or at night
• Regurgitation of food or sour liquid

Symptoms of LPR include:

• Chronic throat clearing or a persistent cough
• Difficulty swallowing or a burning sensation in the throat
• Hoarseness or changes in voice
• Postnasal drip or excess mucus in the throat
• Sore throat or a sensation that something is stuck in the throat

Your doctor will ask about your symptoms, such as whether you often have heartburn. If you do, your doctor may recommend a medicine that reduces or blocks stomach acid to see if it helps. Some people need tests like an upper gastrointestinal (GI) endoscopy or tests for acid in the esophagus.

We offer a variety of treatments for both GERD and LPR, including:

• Lifestyle modifications, including diet, exercise, weight management and sleep positioning strategies
• Medications, including alginate, H2 blockers and proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) to heal or prevent damage to esophageal and voice structures