Gastroesophageal reflux occurs when stomach contents travel back up into the esophagus. This backward flow can cause a burning sensation in the throat because its sensitive lining is not designed to withstand acidic stomach contents. While occasional reflux is common, frequent or bothersome occurrences may indicate a chronic condition.
How Reflux Causes Throat Burning
The burning sensation in the throat from reflux stems from the irritation and inflammation of delicate tissues. Stomach acid, and sometimes bile, moves upward into the esophagus, pharynx (throat), and larynx (voice box). These upper digestive and respiratory structures lack the protective lining found in the stomach and lower esophagus.
Normally, two muscular rings, or sphincters, help prevent reflux. The lower esophageal sphincter (LES) is at the junction of the esophagus and stomach, acting as a one-way valve to keep stomach contents down. The upper esophageal sphincter (UES) is located at the top of the esophagus, protecting the throat and airways. When these sphincters do not close properly or relax at inappropriate times, stomach acid can escape and directly irritate the throat, leading to the burning feeling.
Recognizing Related Symptoms
Beyond the burning throat sensation, several other symptoms can arise from reflux affecting the upper airway. Individuals may experience hoarseness, a chronic cough, or a frequent need to clear their throat. Some also describe a feeling of a lump in the throat, known as globus sensation, or difficulty swallowing, called dysphagia.
A sour taste in the mouth or regurgitation of food and liquid can also occur as stomach contents reach the throat. Recognizing these accompanying signs can help in identifying whether throat burning is related to reflux.
Understanding Different Reflux Types Affecting the Throat
Reflux that impacts the throat can manifest in different forms, with the most commonly discussed being Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) and Laryngopharyngeal Reflux (LPR). GERD primarily involves stomach acid flowing into the esophagus, often causing classic heartburn, a burning sensation in the chest. This occurs when the lower esophageal sphincter malfunctions.
LPR, often referred to as “silent reflux,” is distinct because it involves stomach contents traveling higher, reaching the larynx and pharynx. Individuals with LPR may experience throat symptoms without the typical heartburn associated with GERD. This is because the refluxate does not linger in the esophagus long enough to cause significant irritation there, but the more sensitive throat tissues are still affected.
Long-Term Effects on Throat Health
Chronic irritation from persistent reflux can lead to several long-term effects on throat health. Sustained exposure to stomach acid can cause ongoing inflammation of the vocal cords, potentially leading to conditions such as chronic laryngitis. Over time, this inflammation might contribute to the development of vocal nodules or polyps on the vocal cords, affecting voice quality.
In some cases, chronic reflux can cause changes to the esophageal lining, a condition known as Barrett’s esophagus. While this directly affects the esophagus, it underscores prolonged acid exposure. Although less common, persistent and untreated reflux can also increase the risk of esophageal cancer.
When Professional Medical Evaluation is Needed
Professional medical evaluation is important if throat burning from suspected reflux becomes persistent or is accompanied by other symptoms. If symptoms occur frequently, such as several times a week, or do not improve with basic lifestyle adjustments, medical consultation is advised.
Specific “red flag” symptoms warrant prompt medical attention. These include significant difficulty or pain when swallowing, unexplained weight loss, or persistent vomiting. A healthcare provider can diagnose the cause of throat burning, rule out other conditions, and recommend an appropriate management plan.