translated from Spanish: The problem of reflux and its effects on voice and digestive health

Up to 3 out of 10 people suffer from pharynx-laryngeal reflux. This picture is produced by the return of gastric juices to the pharynx and larynx, which manifests in symptoms such as carraspera, burning in the throat, dysphonia and thrush sensation in the throat. Teachers, artists and communicators represent the segment of greatest consultation for this diagnosis, since they work with their voice and have greater awareness about these symptoms.
However, after celebrations such as Fiestas Patrias and New Year, the incidence increases in the adult general population. While this symptom is part of various pathologies or diseases, timely consultation with ongoing respiratory dysphonia without respiratory diseases would help make more accurate and effective diagnosis and treatment.
Voice problems
Adrián Castillo, professor of the Career of Phonoaudiology at the Pontifical Catholic University, explains that patients experience voice disturbances, frequent carraspera, excessive mucus in the throat, and in more severe cases, discomfort when swallowing, cough after eating and lying down, feeling choked or the appearance of sudden, stabbing pain in the neck area. In some more severe cases, according to the specialist, symptoms of this picture tend to be confused with asthma.
“On the other hand, the vocal cords have a natural ability to recover in a short time, unlike other organs. If in a couple of days and without any disease to which it can be attributed, dysphonia should be overcome; if this is not the case or experience the recurrence of this picture, it is necessary to consult a laryngologist”, recommends the audiologist.
Proper diet
Among the general recommendations it is suggested that dinner be the lightest meal, eat sitting and not lie down until 2 hours after you have finished, as well as avoid the consumption of liquids in abundance, whether cold or hot.
In addition, Alejandra Stop, academic of the UC Nutrition and Dietetic Race, suggests limiting caffeine, chocolate, sodas, high-fat foods, spicy or highly seasoned foods, acidic fruits and lemon juice, as well as tobacco.
It is also important for the specialist to monitor the consumption of high-fat foods, such as meats, cold cuts and pastry products, as this fat contributes to the relax of the lower esophageal sphincter, which is between the esophagus and stomach and one of its functions is to prevent the passage of gastric content from the stomach to the esophagus.
The nutritionist recommends controlling the consumption of acidic foods such as citrus, fruit juices or sauces with more acidity. In the same sense, it is preferable to avoid alcohol or limit to half a glass of wine and distance between 2 and 3 hours the time of meals.
The specialist concludes that in all kinds of celebrations, excesses affect health and while there are external factors such as smoke and noise, there are others that do involve the decision itself, as is the case of feeding.

Original source in Spanish