What is reflux?

Gastro-oesephageal reflux disease (also known as GORD, GERD, reflux, or sometimes ‘heart-burn’) is a common and uncomfortable disease which describes when material in the stomach (acid) moves upwards and causes a burning sensation in the chest, food pipe (oeseophagus) or throat (pharynx) and occasionally results in a nasty flavour in the mouth. 

For some people, symptoms may be mild or occasional, for others, the reflux can have a significant impact on everyday activities. 

What has this got to do with speech pathology?

When the acidic material from the stomach rises to your throat, it can cause irritation and occasionally damage components that are responsible for voice and swallowing.  

For example, the acidic material can touch your vocal cords/folds and cause damage to the sensitive ‘skin’ there. This can lead to changes in your voice quality. For example, your voice may become rough or hoarse. 

The acidic material may also lead to hyper-sensitivity in your throat. Hyper-sensitivity may result in the sensation of having a ‘frog in your throat’ or difficulties with swallowing. It may also lead to a chronic cough or throat clear which can result in damage to your vocal cords/folds and further changes to your voice quality.  

Speech pathologists are able to listen to your medical and case history, assess your symptoms, provide recommendations for non-medical management of your reflux and instruct you with therapeutic techniques to address any resulting voice or swallowing difficulties. Speech pathologists may also recommend further medical investigation with your GP, gastroenterologist or ENT. 

Some strategies to manage reflux include:

  • Taking medication prescribed by your GP or gastroenterologist (e.g., Nexium or Somac)
  • Using over the counter medications (e.g., Gaviscon)
  • Avoiding spicy foods or other trigger foods
  • Minimising alcohol intake
  • Allowing a 2-hour window between dinner and bed-time
  • Drinking plenty of water
  • Sleeping as propped up as possible (with your head raised)

If you have any concerns about the impact of your reflux on your voice or swallowing function, please don’t hesitate to reach out to Hanrahan Health to book an assessment.