Acid Reflux
Acid reflux is a chronic condition characterized by the regular backflow of stomach acid, leading to symptoms such as heartburn, regurgitation, or a sour taste in the mouth. When reflux becomes frequent or ongoing, it can affect both the digestive tract and the upper airway, causing persistent discomfort and irritation.
At Mile High ENT, we understand the discomfort that comes with chronic acid reflux. Our provider, Dr. Sarmad Sabour, focuses on identifying the underlying cause of reflux to create a personalized care plan that helps reduce irritation, relieve discomfort, and improve long-term control.
Complete our online form or call us at 303-487-0834 to schedule a consultation today.
What Is Acid Reflux?
Acid reflux occurs when stomach acid flows backward into the esophagus or up into the throat instead of staying in the stomach.
There are two common forms of reflux:
GERD (Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease): Primarily affects the lower esophagus and often causes heartburn, chest discomfort, and a burning sensation in the chest.
LPR (Laryngopharyngeal Reflux): Affects the throat and voice. Symptoms may include hoarseness, throat irritation, and chronic coughing, often without typical heartburn.
Unlike occasional acid reflux caused by temporary triggers, acid reflux or GERD involves frequent episodes that occur at least twice a week over a longer period of time.
Our Approach to Managing Acid Reflux
At Mile High ENT, we focus on how acid reflux affects your throat, voice, and airway, not just your stomach.
Our approach to managing acid reflux includes:
Symptoms of Acid Reflux
Acid reflux can affect both the chest and the throat, depending on how high the acid travels.
Common symptoms include:
Heartburn or a burning sensation in the chest
Regurgitation of sour or bitter fluid into the throat or mouth
Chronic cough or frequent throat clearing
Hoarseness or voice changes
Sore or irritated throat
A feeling of mucus in the throat
Chest discomfort or bloating
Bad breath
In cases of LPR (reflux affecting the throat), many patients do not experience heartburn and instead notice ongoing throat or voice symptoms.
Why Acid Reflux Happens
Acid reflux occurs when the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), a muscle that normally keeps stomach contents in place, does not function properly. When this muscle weakens or relaxes at the wrong time, acid can flow back into the esophagus or throat.
Several factors can trigger or worsen reflux:
Certain foods and drinks, such as coffee, alcohol, chocolate, spicy, or fatty foods
Eating large meals or lying down soon after eating
Increased abdominal pressure from weight gain or pregnancy
Certain medications, including anti-inflammatory drugs
Certain conditions, such as a hiatal hernia
Smoking or tobacco use
Stomach infections or irritation
Potential Complications of Untreated Acid Reflux
When reflux is frequent and ongoing, the repeated exposure to acid can irritate and damage surrounding tissues, especially in the throat and esophagus.
Over time, this may lead to:
Inflammation of the esophagus (esophagitis)
Narrowing of the esophagus, making swallowing difficult
Ongoing throat irritation, chronic cough, or worsening asthma symptoms
Changes in the lining of the esophagus (Barrett’s esophagus)
Ulcers in the esophagus
Untreated reflux can also contribute to persistent hoarseness, throat discomfort, and vocal cord irritation, which is why identifying and managing it early is important.
Diagnosis of Acid Reflux
At Mile High ENT, we start by understanding how your symptoms affect your throat, voice, and daily life.
We begin with a focused evaluation that includes a discussion of your symptoms, medical history, and any patterns or triggers you have noticed. When needed, additional testing may be recommended to better understand the severity or confirm the diagnosis.
Diagnostic tests may include:
Upper endoscopy
Esophageal pH test
Esophageal manometry
Esophagram
These studies help evaluate acid exposure, swallowing function, or structural changes.
Based on the findings, we create a clear, personalized treatment plan focused on both symptom relief and long-term control.
Our Treatment Options for Acid Reflux
At Mile High ENT, we tailor the treatment plan to your specific symptoms and how reflux is affecting your throat and airway.
Medications may be used to reduce acid production and allow irritated tissue in the throat and esophagus to heal.
We provide guidance on lifestyle changes that can reduce reflux, including meal timing, food choices, and habits that may be triggering your symptoms.
In cases where symptoms persist despite other treatments, surgical options may be considered to improve the function of the lower esophageal sphincter and reduce reflux.
Our goal is to help you control symptoms, protect your airway, and prevent ongoing irritation, so you can feel more comfortable day to day.
Find Relief from Chronic Acid Reflux
If you are experiencing ongoing throat irritation, voice changes, or symptoms that may be related to acid reflux, a proper ENT evaluation can help identify the cause and guide treatment.
At Mile High ENT, we provide specialized ENT care and targeted solutions to help you feel better day to day.
To schedule a consultation at Mile High ENT, please call us at 303-487-0834 or fill out our online appointment request form.