4. Difficulty Swallowing: More Than Just a Passing Glitch
Swallowing should be a seamless, almost subconscious act. Yet, for LPR patients, what seems natural becomes a chore. The sensation is as if every bite or sip taken is a deliberate effort, sometimes accompanied by discomfort or even mild pain.
Now, how does LPR factor into this? The refluxed stomach acid can irritate and inflame the throat’s lining. Over time, this inflammation can lead to a narrowed esophagus, making swallowing harder. It’s a symptom that can’t be brushed under the rug, especially since it deals with our basic need – eating.
Moreover, this difficulty can extend beyond food. Some patients even report trouble swallowing their saliva, leading to increased spit or even drooling in severe cases. Imagine facing a task as simple as swallowing saliva and finding it hard. It’s both physically uncomfortable and emotionally taxing.(4)
