Silent reflux, also called laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR), occurs when stomach contents flow back toward the throat and voice box. Unlike typical acid reflux, it may happen without heartburn. You might notice a hoarse voice, a lasting cough, or a frequent need to clear your throat. Some people feel as if something is stuck in their
Some blood pressure medications can worsen acid reflux or heartburn. Calcium channel blockers are one example. The National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK) lists them among medicines that may contribute to gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). However, not everyone taking these medicines will develop reflux. There is also no blood pressure medication
A GERD diet plan is a way to organize meals around foods you tolerate, while paying attention to portion sizes, meal timing, and ingredients that may worsen acid reflux. There is no single diet that works for everyone with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). If you’re wondering what to eat throughout the week, this 7-day GERD
Acid reflux and GERD do not typically cause changes in bowel movements or stool color directly. However, people with GERD can also experience diarrhea, constipation, or changes in stool appearance. These symptoms may occur together because of another digestive condition, medication side effects, or unrelated factors. If you’ve noticed unusual bowel movements alongside heartburn, it’s
Heartburn can occur during or after a stomach bug, especially when the illness involves repeated vomiting. Stomach acid coming up during vomiting can irritate the esophagus and cause a burning sensation similar to heartburn. However, there is limited evidence that viral gastroenteritis directly causes ongoing acid reflux or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). If you notice
A cold or the flu may coincide with heartburn or make existing acid reflux symptoms more noticeable, but there is limited evidence that respiratory infections directly cause acid reflux or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Changes in eating habits, time spent lying down, vomiting, or certain medicines taken during illness may help explain why heartburn appears
Psyllium may help reduce acid reflux symptoms in some people, but the evidence is still limited. A small clinical study found improvements in heartburn and reflux episodes after psyllium supplementation. More recent research has also explored its use alongside medication for throat-related reflux. However, psyllium is not an established treatment for gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is associated with lower health-related quality of life and with higher levels of anxiety, depressive symptoms, sleep problems, and limitations in everyday functioning. That does not mean GERD directly causes anxiety or depression. Much of the evidence comes from observational studies, which can identify associations but cannot determine which problem came
Do probiotics help GERD? Recent trials suggest some may improve symptoms when used with standard treatment, but they are not a replacement for GERD medication.
GERD occurs when stomach acid frequently flows back into the esophagus—the tube that connects the mouth to the stomach—leading to irritation and inflammation of the esophageal lining. The most common symptoms include: If left unmanaged, GERD can result in complications such as esophagitis (inflammation of the esophagus), strictures, Barrett’s esophagus, and, in severe cases, an
