Silent gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) refers to a specific type of reflux called laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR). This type of reflux causes no heartburn or other typical symptoms of GERD, making it a silent disease. The reflux in LPR extends past the esophagus into the larynx (voice box) and pharynx (throat). LPR causes damage to the esophagus, which can escalate into serious conditions if untreated. Treating LPR involves reducing acid to prevent refluxing and treating any existing damage that LPR causes.
Instructions
1. Take medication. Over-the-counter antacids such as Maalox, Mylanta and Gelucil sometimes help LPR patients. To heal past damage, a proton pump inhibitor (PPI) halts acid production in the stomach. This allows the esophagus and larynx and pharynx to heal. Prilosec is the only PPI available over the counter. If your doctor needs to treat the damage more aggressively, PPIs such as Nexium and Zegerid are available by prescription.
2. Stop unhealthy habits. Nicotine and caffeine cause excess stomach acid. Alcohol also causes an increase in stomach acid and relaxes the sphincter at the end of the esophagus. This allows the excess acid easier access to go up the esophagus and cause further damage.
3. Change your diet. Acid reflux diets should be high in complex carbohydrates, since they soak up some of the acid in the stomach. Avoid chocolate, foods that are spicy, citrus fruits and coffee. All of these stimulate acid production.
4. Eat smaller meals. Bigger meals force the stomach to produce more acid, resulting in increased acid reflux. Eat smaller meals several times a day rather than three large meals to reduce reflux caused by excess stomach acid.
5. Lose weight. Excess weight pushes on the stomach, causing an increase in acid reflux.
