Laryngopharyngeal Reflux: The Impact of Obesity

This article provides an overview of gastro-esophageal (GERD) and laryngopharynegal (LPRD) reflux diseases in the context of obesity as a confounding entity. A detailed review of the clinical presentation, pathogenesis, diagnosis, and treatment of laryngopharyngeal reflux disease may be found elsewhere. The association between obesity and gastroesophageal reflux disease has been well established, and a similar Association exists between obesity and laryngopharyngeal reflux disease (LPRD). Reflux should be sought in obese patients with voice complaints, and a weight reduction should be recommended in patients in whom LPRD is diagnosed.