Silent Reflux

An 11 year old thread resurrected.

Has anyone had the feeling of a lump in their throat? I had a cold about 3 weeks ago resulting in catarrh and slight chest infection, since I’ve had a really bad cough and the feeling of something being stuck in my throat!! A side effect of the severe coughing is I often ‘leak’ which is embarrassing!! I’m 80 soon and going abroad for my birthday but tbh I’m dreading it!!

Thanks annodomini. I got a letter this morning telling me to expect to hear from the hospital in the next two days - the GP has put me through on the two week appointment system. I must admit, I hadn't expected to be seen so soon, but he did say that he thought it was reflux and nothing more serious. However, from what I've read about reflux since, I don't know why he thought I would be practically cured after two weeks! Interesting about the Ranitidine, I'll bear that in mind. Unfortunately, I love singing and really miss the choir. They've said they're missing me as there are so few altos, so I really hope that I can get this sorted. Thanks again - reassurance really helps a lot.

I have it, Genevieve. It was diagnosed about five years ago by the ENT dept at the local hospital. Laryngo-pharyngeal reflux - rusty throat and coughing, especially after meals. I frequently lost my voice and even now still get husky if I'm tired or have been talking a lot. The ENT consultant did a laryngoscopy. I didn't find that too uncomfortable and could see the screen showing my vocal chords which I found quite interesting. I have omeprazole, ranitidine and gaviscon advance to control the reflux, all of which work well, but it was the introduction of ranitidine to the mix that made the most difference. There is a gap in my vocal range - I can go high or low but not much in between which means I can't sing. But was never much good at that anyway, so no great loss. I was prescribed voice therapy for several months and was given very helpful exercises.
Hope that helps - you are certainly not alone.

Thanks, Brendawymms, I appreciate your reply. It's good to know (I think) that it may take months before it gets better, as my GP thought that I should be feeling a lot better after two weeks on the Lansoprazole - hence the referral to ENT. I did wonder if he was being a bit optimistic. I'm quite pleased about the referral actually, as I will be able to talk to the consultant about the medication etc.

Thanks also for the reassurance about the eye op.

Love and hugs back.

Hi Genevieve it's quite a common problem and takes many by surprise. It's often misdiagnosed also even by ENT staff. The medication prescribed usually works but may take several months to give a noticeable difference.
Don't worry about the eye surgery. I know most people hate the thought of eye operations but they are not that bad and the end result well worth it. I have had several and good sight is so vital. I am sure you will feel better soon. Love and hugs