Learning New Things

In the past day or so, I've learned a little something about laryngopharyngeal reflux (which I'd never known was even a thing before). I would never have imagined I had any kind of reflux problem because I never get indigestion and I rarely belch. As it turns out, many people with LPR never have those symptoms. What they do have is a hoarse voice, coughing fits, and the feeling of having a lump in the throat. I thought I just had a persistent cough from having the flu last month and that that, in turn, was giving me the swollen throat feeling. It doesn't hurt, but it really is uncomfortable and the last few nights I've awakened in the middle of the night unable to swallow. I really didn't know what was going on. I threw myself on the mercy of the office staff of an ear, nose, and throat doctor I had seen once two years ago. They worked me into the schedule and he gave me a good examination and determined there was no secondary infection (from the flu) and I do have reflux. He actually apologized for not being able to do anything that would quickly alleviate my symptoms, but he said the medication would start helping in a few weeks. I was just relieved there was no serious damage; my throat is swollen and irritated, but it will clear up soon with the medicine.

This afternoon I ordered a book that has tips for eating and other lifestyle issues to make LPR less of a problem. I've fallen into a bad habit since I returned from my trip of not eating until late afternoon and then eating a lot. That can't be healthy. I really don't know much about this condition yet, but I'm thinking small meals throughout the day will be a good way to go. I also ordered a wedge pillow, which is supposed to decrease the reflux. Okay, I have nothing else to say about this, so I'm going to prop myself on some pillows and hope for sleep tonight!