Silent reflux occurs when stomach acid or digestive enzymes flow back up from the stomach into the throat, irritating and inflaming the sensitive tissues. It can be caused by various factors, including obesity, smoking, alcohol consumption, a hiatal hernia, or a weakened lower esophageal sphincter (LES).

If left untreated, silent reflux can lead to chronic throat and voice problems, such as vocal cord nodules, granulomas, ulcers, and even cancer. That's why it's essential to seek medical evaluation and treatment if you suspect you have silent reflux.

At LA Center for Ear Nose Throat & Allergy, we offer a comprehensive evaluation of your symptoms, medical history, and physical examination to diagnose silent reflux accurately. We may also perform additional tests, such as a laryngoscopy, to assess the extent and severity of your reflux.

Once we diagnose silent reflux, we develop a customized treatment plan tailored to your needs and preferences. Depending on the severity of your symptoms and underlying conditions, treatment options may include:

• Lifestyle Modifications: We may recommend dietary changes, weight loss, smoking cessation, and avoiding trigger foods and beverages, such as spicy, fatty, or acidic foods, caffeine, and alcohol.
• Medications: We may prescribe acid-reducing drugs, such as proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), H2 blockers, or antacids, to neutralize or reduce the amount of acid in your stomach. We may also recommend prokinetic agents or mucosal protectants to improve digestion or protect the lining of your throat.
• Surgery: In rare cases where other treatments fail or there are structural abnormalities, we may suggest surgical interventions, such as fundoplication, to reinforce the LES and prevent reflux.

If you suspect you have silent reflux or have been diagnosed with it and need expert care, don't hesitate to schedule a consultation with our experienced ENT team. We're dedicated to helping you achieve optimal throat health and quality of life.