Most of us associate acid reflux with heartburn, that burning sensation in the center of the chest or chest pain that can be bad enough it mimicks a heart attack. Acid reflux can strike higher up, however. If you have hoarseness or a lumpy feeling in the throat, it could be Laryngopharyngeal acid reflux, which specifically attacks the throat. The body responds by producing a lot of mucus, and that makes it feel thicker back there. It's not usually painful the way typical acid reflux is, but it can cause damage, so it's important not to ignore it. "Your larynx is literally 100 times more sensitive than your stomach, so the damage there is a little more extensive over a shorter period of time."
You should see your doctor if you suspect Laryngopharyngeal acid reflux might be your problem. I would like to stress, however, that it's a good idea to be tested for food allergies, if you haven't. I had a hoarse throat and was even losing my voice at times, and I thought it might be related to my acid reflux problems. It turned out I had a boat-load of food allergies (which also ended up being the cause of my heartburn!) and all I needed to do was stop eating certain foods. Please don't let a doctor put you on some drug without investigating this possibility.
Quote from "Lumpy Throat? It Might Be Acid Reflux."
I have just been diagnosed with Acid reflux and I find myself all day clearing my throat. It's like the mucus never goes away. Also, I find myself getting hoarse throughout the day and most of the time, it sounds like I just woke up. It makes me sound groggy and I feel groggy also because I can't seem to get enough sleep...if I go to bed early, I still sometimes wake up tired...I hear sleep problems can sometimes be caused by acid reflux.
Posted by: Tracie | September 07, 2006 at 02:53 PM
I have sleep apnea along with acid reflux,I have been told the apnea causes the reflux. I sometimes get a lot of differnt symptoms related to the reflux,i can have sever upper stomach pain that goes up into my chest and feels like i am having a heart attack,I also get a burpy burning sensation that is followed for days by a chronic hacking cough.there will be a slight burning in my throat off and on for several days or weeks,my voice will be somewhat horse as well. Lots of throat clearing. the cpap has been a wonderful benefit to me,I do very well until I start eating the wrong foods or drinking too much fruit juices. It is all manageable with the right instructions.
Posted by: Rosemary | September 17, 2008 at 07:30 AM
This is really helpful. I've been suspecting my heartburn is allergy-related and I had a lump in my throat and no idea why. Now I see they might be related.
Posted by: Emma | April 17, 2009 at 09:29 PM
I too thought i was having a heart attack!! Cardio issues ruled out.... Was put on prelosec (30 days) and of course was advised to quit on spicy food(s)....grapes, lemon, and such could also be a trigger. Hope this will be helpful. J
Posted by: Jacinta | May 04, 2010 at 07:33 PM