When to worry about sore throat with acid reflux

Acid or stomach contents can move upward and irritate the throat and voice box. This may cause burning, a scratchy feeling, frequent throat clearing, hoarseness, cough or a sour taste. Symptoms can be worse after meals, when bending over or when lying down. Throat irritation can also have other causes, so the pattern and accompanying symptoms help a clinician assess it.

Keep a short record of meals, lying-down times, throat symptoms and any heartburn. Try smaller meals, remain upright after eating and avoid foods or drinks that clearly trigger your symptoms. Do not stop prescribed treatment without advice. A clinician can review medicines and decide whether the throat needs examination, particularly when symptoms keep returning or affect your voice.

Get urgent help for difficulty breathing, inability to swallow saliva, severe chest pain, vomiting blood or black stools. Arrange prompt medical review for food sticking, painful swallowing, unexplained weight loss, repeated vomiting, blood in saliva or hoarseness that does not settle. Seek an appointment when throat pain persists despite reflux measures or keeps disrupting sleep.

Ask whether reflux fits your symptom pattern, whether another throat problem should be considered, and how long to try the recommended treatment. Ask which warning signs should prompt faster review and whether an ear, nose and throat assessment is appropriate.