Otolaryngologists' Role in Diagnosing and Treating GERD

This is a guest post by Dr. Hassen Mohammed, who is doing his rhinology fellowship training in the Sinai Hospital Division of Otolaryngology.

Did you know that swallowing and voice problems can be caused by GERD ? It stands for Gastro-Esophageal Reflux Disease (GERD), which occurs when stomach acid moves up the esophagus to the pharynx (the area behind the nose and mouth), causing discomfort.
Affecting about 40 percent of adults in the United States, GERD is generally associated with heartburn and regurgitation of acid, but it can also cause serious complications affecting swallowing and your voice.

That's when otolaryngologists, also known as ear, nose and throat specialists, can help.

How we diagnose GERD

In determining whether someone is suffering from GERD, we can perform what's called a flexible fiberoptic laryngoscopy, during which the patient's nose and throat are numbed before a thin, flexible tube with a light and camera is inserted through the nose to examine the inside of the patient's throat and voice box for signs of acid reflux.

We also perform a videostroboscopy, which involves using a camera and strobe lighting to evaluate the function and motion of the vocal cords. Through this state-of-the-art procedure, we can diagnose nodules, polyps and many other vocal cord diseases.

In addition, we conduct a pH probe to measure the acidity of the pharynx in diagnosing and determining the best treatment for acid reflux.

How we treat GERD

Generally, GERD is treated through a combination of medication and lifestyle changes. We may recommend that patients:

• Avoid eating and drinking 2-3 hours before bedtime
• Lose weight
• Quit smoking and drinking alcohol
• Eat more slowly
• Consume lighter meals
• Wear loose clothing
• Avoid certain foods and beverages which may aggravate GERD symptoms, such as: caffeine, carbonated drinks, chocolate, peppermints, tomatoes, citrus fruits, and fatty and fried foods

Medications may be prescribed if lifestyle changes don't help or the patient is experiencing severe symptoms. Treatments include proton pump inhibitors like Nexium or Prilosec. Patients may also be referred to a gastroenterologist for further treatment.

The Sinai Hospital Division of Otolaryngology, under the leadership of Dr. Alan Shikani, offers a full range of services for diagnosing and treating ENT disorders. If you are interested in making an appointment, please call 410-601-WELL or fill out our online appointment request form.