Navigating LPR: My Journey and Effective Strategies

Post-surgery, I was diagnosed with LPR (Laryngopharyngeal Reflux), a condition many do not fully understand. LPR is a type of acid reflux that affects the larynx and pharynx. This condition was caused by the slight tension in the abdominal fascia during the closure of a surgical wound, which may have impacted the lower esophageal sphincter (LES).

LPR symptoms include constant sore throat, voice loss, globus (a lump-like sensation in the throat), and postnasal drip. These symptoms can be incredibly disruptive to daily life. Initially, my gastroenterologist prescribed proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), but they provided little relief.

Effective Treatments for LPR

After exploring various treatment options, I found two methods that have significantly improved my condition.

The Fast Track Diet

The Fast Track Diet is a structured approach to managing LPR symptoms. Download the free app and follow the diet plan strictly for a month. This method works by eliminating certain foods that can trigger reflux. Foods are ranked based on their potential to cause reflux by measuring gas production during a controlled hydrochloric acid (HCL) challenge. For instance, bananas fall into the highest category, while steak, chicken, and jasmine rice are among the lowest.

While the Fast Track Diet provided tremendous relief, the restricted nature of the diet can be challenging to maintain long-term. Despite its limitations, it is an excellent tool for learning the triggers of your reflux and understanding the reasoning behind certain dietary restrictions.

A Daily Routine to Manage LPR

My current strategy involves adjusting my eating schedule to minimize the burden on my digestive system. This approach is based on the hypothesis that reducing the duration of digestion can decrease the overall acidity levels that cause throat irritation. Here's what I do:

Breakfast is omitted as I fast until lunchtime. Lunch and dinner are later in the day and are substantial meals to ensure I get enough calories. I avoid certain foods that can exacerbate symptoms, such as gluten, carbonated drinks, barbecue sauce, and tomatoes.

This strategy has kept my symptoms at bay for two years. The absence of a morning meal significantly reduced the frequency of reflux symptoms, and a well-timed lunch and dinner helped manage my caloric intake effectively.

The Importance of Consistency

My experience with LPR has taught me the importance of consistency in both my diet and lifestyle. When I ignore my fasting routine, symptoms tend to reappear within a few days. This emphasizes the importance of adherence to any chosen treatment plan.

In conclusion, managing LPR requires a multifaceted approach. From structured diets like the Fast Track Diet to more customized schedules, the key is finding the right balance that fits your lifestyle and provides relief.

Through these methods, I have not only managed but nearly eliminated my LPR symptoms, leading to a significantly improved quality of life.