Maryland doctor clarifies if chronic throat clearing can lead to oesophageal cancer: ‘It can be a sign of…’
Hindustan Times • • health
Key Points:
- Chronic throat clearing is often caused by silent acid reflux (laryngopharyngeal reflux), where stomach acid irritates the throat and voice box without typical heartburn symptoms.
- If untreated, this reflux can damage the oesophagus lining and may lead to Barrett’s oesophagus, a condition that increases the risk of oesophageal cancer over time.
- Symptoms of silent acid reflux include chronic throat clearing, hoarseness, a lump sensation in the throat, cough, or sour taste, even without heartburn.
- Management strategies include eating smaller meals, avoiding spicy or fatty foods, not lying down soon after eating, elevating the head during sleep, maintaining healthy weight, and avoiding smoking and alcohol.
- Persistent symptoms warrant medical
