Unlike gastro-oesophageal reflux, where you might feel numerous symptoms such as heartburn or chest pain, silent reflux is just that….silent.
We speak to a lot of patients who may have the condition of silent reflux but without the more common and noticeable symptoms, and this is where the Functional Gut Clinic can help.
Offering further investigation into symptoms, detailed testing, and the appropriate treatment plans, we work with individuals to ensure your gut health is in the best possible condition.
In this post, we will explore silent reflux in further detail and look at possible treatment options and diagnosis.
Silent Acid Reflux
Reflux occurs when acid in our stomachs moves backward, flowing into the oesophagus and irritating the throat.
Also known as laryngopharyngeal reflux, silent reflux can affect both adults and infants; however, the good news is that it is treatable.
In some instances, silent reflux can be managed through lifestyle changes and a change to our diet; however, in more severe cases, medication may be the best course of action.
Treatment plans are typically devised after a patient has had the appropriate reflux tests to examine the volume and pH levels of the acid rising from the stomach to the oesophagus.
Silent Reflux Symptoms
Symptoms of reflux typically include:
- Heartburn
- Indigestion
- A burning sensation in the throat.
More common symptoms of silent reflux include:
- Hoarseness when speaking
- Frequent coughing as you feel the need to clear your throat
- Bitter taste at the back of your throat
- You have difficulty in swallowing
- There is a swelling or irritation of the vocal cords
- You have mild breathing difficulties
- You have the sensation or feeling of postnasal drip.
Note: In infants and children, symptoms may vary slightly as children may experience a failure to gain weight or grow, sore throat, asthma, ear infections, feeding difficulties, and
more.
Please make sure to read our post on “Silent Reflux in Infants” for further information.
What causes silent reflux?
Silent reflux occurs when stomach acid travels back up through your food pipe and reaches the back of your throat.
This typically occurs when the valve (oesophageal sphincter muscle) at the bottom of your oesophagus and entrance to your stomach is not operating (contracting) properly, allowing stomach acid to pass back through.
Some adults will develop a cold or flu before developing laryngopharyngeal reflux. Other silent reflux signs may include:
- A slow-emptying stomach
- Hiatal hernia
- Problems with food pipe contractions
Some of the most common risk factors for what causes silent reflux include:
- Overeating
- Frequently consuming alcohol, spicy, and fatty foods
- Consuming too many carbonated drinks
- Smoking
- Those who use their voice a lot, i.e. singers.
If you are experiencing acid reflux twice a week or more and this has been continuous for over three weeks, this could be a sign of GORD (gastro-oesophageal reflux disorder), and you should speak to your doctor or specialist at the Functional Gut Clinic who can carry out reflux testing to find out more.
Diagnosis
At the Functional Gut Clinic, we will thoroughly review your symptoms and medical history.
Testing for silent reflux is typically through an examination of the throat, and we will provide a physical examination and look to carry out more in-depth reflux testing, which includes 24-hour reflux testing and manometry testing, if appropriate.
Other tests may include a barium x-ray, endoscopy, and a detailed stomach and food pipe examination.
Treatment Options
Once you have received a complete diagnosis from your 24-hour reflux test, you will receive a full treatment plan that is appropriate for you.
Treatments can range from:
- Diet and lifestyle changes – drink plenty of fluids, avoid fatty and fried foods, reduce alcohol consumption, avoid overly acidic foods, eat smaller meals more often, etc.
- Introduction of medication such as over-the-counter antacids.
- If antacids aren’t proving to be working, you may be prescribed an omeprazole to help reduce stomach acid. Proton pump inhibitors and H2 blockers may also be prescribed.
- In more severe cases, tube feeding and potentially surgery may be discussed.
It is essential that if you are experiencing and have been diagnosed with silent reflux, you receive treatment as soon as possible to avoid future problems such as breathing disorders, recurrent pneumonia, chronic cough, or persistent laryngitis.
The Functional Gut Clinic
We specialise in correctly diagnosing and treating conditions affecting the gastrointestinal tract.
Carrying out the right testing and listening to your symptoms and pain points, we help you find the most appropriate and suitable treatment.
You can make an appointment directly with us, or your GP/Consultant can refer you to the
Functional Gut Clinic for testing.
It’s important to be aware that there are different amounts and types of reflux, which all cause varying symptoms. For example, you can have laryngopharyngeal reflux without having GORD (gastro-oesophageal disease) and vice versa.
What is important is that you speak to a specialist as soon as your symptoms begin, persist, or worsen.
Disclaimer: The information is general and does not take into account your personal situation. This information is intended to provide general guidance and should not be used to self-diagnose or self-treat any medical condition. If your pain persists, consult your doctor.