Publication:

Laryngopharyngeal reflux disease in a series of Kashmiri patients at a tertiary care setting

Background Laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR) is retrograde flow of gastric contents into the larynx, oropharynx and/ or nasopharynx. LPR causes respiratory symptoms such as cough and wheezing and is often associated with head and neck complaints such as dysphonia, globus pharyngus, and dysphagia.

Methods this is an observational study conducted over a period of 18 months at ENT OPD, GMC Srinagar. All patients aged 15 years and above who presented with clinical diagnosis of LPR, not taking any treatment were included. Demographic, dietary and RSI data were obtained by mean of a questionnaire. The 130 patients were recruited and given uniform treatment including antacids and PPIs and lifestyle modification. Routine follow up and assessment with repeat administration of the questionnaire and FOL was arranged for all patients at a period of 4 weeks from the initial assessment.

Results The 130 patients were included. 100 were females (76.9%). The mean age was 41.1. The mean RSI and RFS were 9.2 (SD 2.9) and 6.9 (SD 2.5) respectively. Highest observed were troublesome coughs (0.25) and breathing difficulties (0.37). Highest observed RFS were erythema (2.03), ventricular obliteration (1.54) and posterior commissure hypertrophy (1.18) and lowest observed was vocal cord granuloma (0). 27.7% of patients had associated dental erosions and 12.3% had symptoms suggestive of sinusitis.

Conclusions LPR in the study population was more common in females. Lack of association between RSI and RFR is note-worthy. Dietary modifications and pharmacological management are associated with statistically significant RSI and RFS improvement.