Why Your Morning Sore Throat Might Be a Sign of Silent Reflux

Waking up with a sore throat every morning, even when you’re not sick? It could be silent reflux, also known as laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR). Unlike regular acid reflux, it doesn’t always cause heartburn, making it tricky to detect.

Signs of Silent Reflux

• Persistent sore throat, especially in the morning

• Hoarseness or voice changes

• Feeling of a lump in the throat

• Chronic cough or throat clearing

• Postnasal drip

• Difficulty swallowing or a sensation of food getting stuck

Why It Happens

Silent reflux occurs when stomach acid flows back into your throat and voice box, irritating the tissues. Unlike GERD, which primarily affects the esophagus, LPR affects the upper airway, causing symptoms that don’t always include heartburn.

Factors contributing to silent reflux include:

• Weak lower esophageal sphincter (LES), which allows acid to escape

• Lying down immediately after eating

• Obesity or pregnancy, which increases abdominal pressure

• Eating acidic or spicy foods

• Excessive caffeine or alcohol intake

• Smoking, which weakens the esophageal muscles

How to Manage It

• Dietary Changes: Avoid trigger foods like citrus, tomatoes, fried foods, and carbonated beverages.

• Eating Habits: Eat smaller meals and avoid lying down for at least 2-3 hours after eating.

• Lifestyle Adjustments: Maintain a healthy weight and elevate your head while sleeping.

• Hydration: Drink plenty of water and consider sipping on herbal teas that soothe the throat.

• Medical Intervention: If symptoms persist, consult an ENT specialist or gastroenterologist. Medications like proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) or H2 blockers may help.