Although the primary effects of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR) can be significantly harmful to the body, they are also known for the numerous comorbidities they produce.

“Comorbidity” is a term used to describe the simultaneous existence of two or more chronic conditions within a single patient. It can either define the presence of two unrelated conditions or the presence of multiple conditions caused by a primary medical issue.

According to an article posted in JAMA Otolaryngology – Head & Neck Surgery, GERD is the most frequently implicated disease when it comes to comorbid causes of upper-airway disease. LPR has also been implicated as the cause of multiple otolaryngologic conditions (medical issues dealing with the ears, nose, and throat).

The comorbidities associated with LPR include:

• Laryngospasm – brief vocal cord spasms
• Vocal cord dysfunction
• Dysphonia – experiencing difficulty when speaking
• Throat pain
• Asthma
• Laryngeal cancer
• Chronic rhinosinusitis – inflammation of the sinuses

There are a number of other diseases and conditions that can also be worsened by GERD and LPR, which is why it is important to seek help for managing your GERD and LPR as soon as possible. Finding an effective treatment quickly will prevent both the worsening of your reflux disease and the development of any harmful commorbidities

If you are in need of expert care for your reflux disease, contact Institute of Esophageal and Reflux Surgery to schedule an appointment with board-certified general surgeon Dr. Reginald Bell.