What Causes Laryngitis?

Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease

Gastroesophageal reflux disease is a disorder of the digestive system where the lower esophageal sphincter does not function properly. The lower esophageal sphincter is a muscular ring that keeps the stomach contents from backing up into the esophagus. A gastroesophageal reflux disease patient will experience the influx of acid and stomach contents into their esophagus because the lower esophageal sphincter does not stay closed. Individuals affected by gastroesophageal reflux disease may develop inflammation in their vocal folds if the stomach contents or acids make their way to the throat level. The tissues that make up the vocal cords are not made to have repeated exposure to digestive acids and enzymes over a long period. Individuals who have laryngitis due to gastroesophageal reflux disease tend to present with symptoms such as hoarseness, feeling of a lump in the throat, coughing, and burning in the throat.

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