4 min read · Free
Reflux, or a swallowing problem?
Heartburn and coughing on food can feel related. They usually happen in different places.
Awaiting clinical review. This page is written from general, widely accepted background on how eating and swallowing work. It has not yet been signed off by a named clinician, and it is not a substitute for asking one.
What reflux is
Reflux is when stomach contents flow back up into the food pipe. Many people get it now and then.
When it happens often or causes problems, doctors call it GERD.
Reflux that reaches the throat
Sometimes reflux reaches the throat and voice box. This is called LPR, or laryngopharyngeal reflux.
LPR often comes without heartburn. People may notice throat clearing, hoarseness or a lump feeling instead.
How people often describe each one
This is only a rough guide. It is not a way to tell for yourself.
- Mouth and throat: coughing or choking as you swallow, food going the wrong way, or a wet voice after drinking.
- Food pipe and reflux: heartburn, a sour or bitter taste, or food coming back up.
- Mouth and throat trouble tends to happen during the swallow.
- Reflux often shows up later, after meals or when lying down.
What you might notice
- Heartburn, or a burning feeling behind the breastbone.
- A sour taste, especially at night.
- Clearing your throat a lot, or a hoarse voice.
- A lump feeling in the throat that comes and goes.
What can help
- Eat smaller meals.
- Stay upright for a while after eating.
- Leave a few hours between your last meal and bed.
- Notice which foods or drinks bother you, and tell your doctor.
- Ask a pharmacist how and when to take reflux medicines, and what each one does.
The options people talk about
Treatment for reflux usually starts with daily habits. Medicines that lower acid are common next steps, and surgery is an option for some.
Each has different trade-offs. Ask what each involves, and what the evidence says for symptoms like yours.
Questions to ask your care team
- Could this be reflux, a swallowing problem, or both?
- Should I see a GI doctor, an ENT or an SLP?
- Do any of my medicines play a part?
- What changes should make me call sooner?
When to get help
Get checked soon if you notice any of these. A doctor or SLP can look at what is going on.
You know your own body best. Bring what you notice to your care team, and decide together.
- Coughing or choking when you eat or drink.
- Food or pills that feel stuck.
- Losing weight without trying.
- Pneumonia or chest infections, especially if they come back.
When this is worth asking about
- You cannot breathe, speak or cough. Call 911.
- Chest pain. Chest pain can be the heart, so get it checked now.
- Food sticks, or swallowing hurts.
- You are losing weight, or vomiting blood or dark material.