Acid Reflux and ENT Symptoms: What’s the Connection?

When you think of acid reflux—also known as GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease)—you probably imagine heartburn or a sour taste in your mouth. But what many people don’t realize is that GERD can also cause ear, nose, and throat (ENT) symptoms that seem completely unrelated to digestion.

If you’ve been battling a chronic sore throat, hoarseness, or a lingering cough with no clear cause, the real issue might be coming from your stomach.

Here’s how acid reflux affects the upper airway—and what you can do about it.

What Is GERD and LPR?

GERD occurs when stomach acid frequently flows back into the esophagus, irritating its lining. When that acid travels higher, past the esophagus and into the throat or even nasal passages, it’s called LPR (laryngopharyngeal reflux).

LPR is sometimes called “silent reflux” because it often occurs without traditional heartburn. Instead, patients experience a variety of upper respiratory symptoms that may be misdiagnosed or treated ineffectively—until the underlying reflux is identified.

Common ENT Symptoms Linked to Reflux

• Chronic sore throat
• Hoarseness or voice changes
• Frequent throat clearing
• Persistent dry cough
• Feeling of a lump in the throat (globus sensation)
• Postnasal drip-like symptoms
• Difficulty swallowing
• Excessive mucus in the throat
• Ear pain or pressure (especially if associated with throat irritation)
  
  

If you’ve been treated for sinus infections, allergies, or bronchitis with little relief, GERD or LPR could be the missing piece of the puzzle.

Why ENT Symptoms Happen with Acid Reflux

The tissues of the throat, larynx (voice box), and nasal passages are much more sensitive than the esophagus. Even small amounts of stomach acid reaching these areas can cause significant inflammation and irritation. Over time, this can lead to chronic symptoms that don’t respond to traditional ENT treatments—because the root cause is gastrointestinal.

How We Diagnose the Connection

At Atlanta ENT, Sinus & Allergy Associates, P.C., we take a comprehensive approach to chronic ENT symptoms. If acid reflux is suspected, we may recommend:

• Throat and laryngeal exams using a scope to assess inflammation
  
• Monitoring your symptoms and triggers (certain foods, lying down after meals, etc.)
  
• Referral for pH testing or upper GI evaluation in more complex cases
  

We often work closely with gastroenterologists to ensure you get the complete care you need.

Treatment Options for Reflux-Related ENT Symptoms

Lifestyle Changes

• Avoid reflux-triggering foods (spicy, fried, acidic, caffeine, alcohol)
  
• Don’t eat 2-3 hours before bedtime
  
• Elevate the head of your bed
  
• Lose weight if needed
  
• Quit smoking
  
  

Medications

• Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) to reduce stomach acid
  
• H2 blockers
  
• Antacids for occasional relief
  
  

Voice and Throat Support

• Vocal hygiene techniques (hydration, avoiding throat clearing)
  
• Anti-inflammatory treatments if needed
  
• Speech therapy for chronic hoarseness
  
  

Don’t Ignore the Signs—Get the Right Diagnosis

If you've been dealing with a stubborn sore throat, hoarseness, or cough that just won’t go away, you may not have a sinus or allergy issue—it could be reflux. Let our experienced team at Atlanta ENT, Sinus & Allergy Associates, P.C. help you uncover the cause and get back to feeling your best.

Schedule Your Evaluation Today

Atlanta Office
Phone (appointments): 404-891-6576
5555 Peachtree Dunwoody Road, Suite 125, Atlanta, GA 30342

Cumming Office
Phone (appointments): 404-255-2918
101 Greenfield Dr, Suite 200, Cumming, GA 30041

Visit www.atlantaent.com to request an appointment and take the first step toward long-lasting relief.

Author

Ramie A. Tritt, MD Ramie A. Tritt, MD, FRCSC, specializes in nasal and sinus surgery as well as snoring and sleep apnea surgery at Atlanta ENT, Sinus & Allergy Associates, P.C.’s Sandy Springs location in Atlanta, Georgia. Dr. Tritt graduated from medical school with honors from McGill University in Montreal, Canada. He completed his otolaryngology residency at McGill University and his fellowship in otology and head and neck surgery at Upstate Medical Center in Syracuse, New York. He is a diplomate of the American Board of Otolaryngology and a fellow of the American Academy of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, and the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada. Dr. Tritt is a member of the Medical Association of Georgia and the American Academy of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery. Dr. Tritt has been an instructor at national ENT meetings, a Medical Advisory Board member for computer image-guided sinus surgery, and been recognized by Atlanta Magazine as a “Doctor Who Doctors Go To”.