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Laryngopharyngeal Reflux (LPR) Treatment in Gangnam, Seoul

Medically reviewed by Dr. Kim Yoo Suk, MD · Board-certified otolaryngologist · Former professor, Yonsei & Ajou University · Consultations in English

What is laryngopharyngeal reflux?

Laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR), sometimes called "silent reflux" or extraesophageal reflux, occurs when stomach acid and digestive enzymes such as pepsin travel all the way up the esophagus and reach the larynx and pharynx. The lining of the throat is far more sensitive than the esophagus, so even small amounts of reflux can cause irritation and swelling.

Unlike classic gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), many people with LPR never feel heartburn, which is why it is often overlooked.

Symptoms

• Frequent throat clearing and excess mucus in the throat
• A lump-in-the-throat (globus) sensation
• Intermittent hoarseness or voice fatigue, often worse in the morning
• Chronic cough, especially after meals or when lying down
• Mild difficulty swallowing or a sensation of postnasal drip
• Sour taste or burning in the throat

Causes and risk factors

LPR happens when the upper and lower esophageal sphincters do not keep stomach contents where they belong. Contributing factors include large or late meals, alcohol, coffee, carbonated drinks, spicy and fatty foods, smoking, excess weight and stress. Business dinners, late-night eating and frequent drinking common in busy city schedules can make symptoms worse.

How it's diagnosed at our Gangnam clinic

Diagnosis is based on your symptoms together with findings on laryngoscopy. Dr. Kim looks for typical signs such as redness and swelling of the back of the larynx, thick mucus and swelling below the vocal folds. Laryngoscopy also rules out other causes of throat symptoms, such as vocal cord granuloma, nodules or tumors. Because nasal disease can mimic LPR with postnasal drip and throat clearing, the nose is checked as well. If symptoms do not respond, referral for further gastrointestinal testing may be discussed.

Treatment options

Lifestyle and diet

• Raise the head of your bed by about 15 cm (using blocks or a wedge, not just extra pillows)
• Finish eating at least three hours before lying down
• Eat smaller meals; reduce alcohol, caffeine, carbonated drinks, chocolate, and spicy or fatty foods
• Stop smoking and, if relevant, lose weight
• Avoid tight clothing around the waist

Medication

Acid-suppressing medication, often a proton pump inhibitor, sometimes combined with alginate or other agents, is commonly prescribed. Because the larynx heals slowly, treatment usually continues for about 3–6 months before the response is judged, with follow-up visits to adjust the plan.

Treating related problems

Throat clearing and voice therapy techniques help break the irritation cycle, and treating coexisting postnasal drip or rhinitis may further reduce symptoms.

When to see an ENT

See an ENT if throat clearing, hoarseness or a lump sensation lasts more than a few weeks. Seek prompt evaluation for difficulty swallowing that is getting worse, pain on swallowing, weight loss, coughing up blood, or a neck lump, which are not explained by reflux alone.

Seeing Dr. Kim in English

Dr. Kim Yoo Suk, a board-certified otolaryngologist and former Yonsei and Ajou university professor, explains the diet and lifestyle advice in practical English, including how to adapt it to Korean food. A rhinology subspecialist who treats all ENT conditions, he also checks whether nasal disease is contributing. Visit us near Gangnam-gu Office Station; see location and hours.

Frequently asked questions

Can I have reflux without heartburn?

Yes. Many people with laryngopharyngeal reflux never feel heartburn. Instead they notice throat clearing, hoarseness, cough or a lump sensation. This is why LPR is sometimes called silent reflux and why an ENT examination of the larynx is helpful.

How long does LPR treatment take?

Medication is often taken for about 3–6 months, because the throat lining heals slowly. Lifestyle changes such as avoiding late meals and raising the head of the bed should continue long term to prevent symptoms from coming back.

Which Korean foods may worsen throat reflux?

Spicy stews, fried foods, heavy late-night meals, soju, beer and coffee are common triggers. You do not need to avoid Korean food altogether; smaller portions, milder dishes and earlier dinners often make a meaningful difference.

This page is general medical information written and reviewed by an ENT specialist. It is not a diagnosis. Symptoms differ between people — please see a doctor for an examination. In an emergency in Korea, call 119.