Chronic Cough? It Might Be Coming From Your Stomach — Not Your Lungs!
- Dr Prashanth R Reddy
- Aug 13
- 3 min read
Updated: Aug 17
Understanding LPRD: The Silent Culprit Behind That Nagging Cough
We’ve all had a cough now and then. But what if yours just doesn’t go away? You’ve tried antibiotics, cough syrups, steam inhalation — and still, that dry, irritating cough returns, especially at night or early in the morning.
If this sounds familiar, you might be dealing with a condition called Laryngopharyngeal Reflux Disease (LPRD) — also known as silent reflux.
What Is LPRD?
LPRD is a type of acid reflux — but unlike GERD, it doesn’t cause heartburn.
Instead, stomach acid silently travels upwards, irritating your throat, voice box, and even your lungs — causing persistent cough and other confusing symptoms.
Think of it like this:Your stomach juices take a U-turn and sneak into areas where they don’t belong — and your body responds with a chronic cough to protect itself.
Common Symptoms of LPRD
Even without heartburn, LPRD can cause:
🔄 Dry, persistent cough — especially at night or after meals
🔊 Frequent throat clearing or hoarseness
💧 Post-nasal drip sensation
😮💨 Breathing issues or wheezing
💤 Worsening symptoms when lying down
How Does LPRD Affect the Lungs?
When acid or enzymes reach your airways, they can:
Irritate the voice box and upper air passages
Cause microaspiration — tiny droplets entering the lungs
Trigger chronic inflammation and dry cough
Mimic conditions like asthma or bronchitis
Who's at Risk?
You may be more prone to LPRD if you:
Eat late at night or lie down soon after meals
Are overweight or physically inactive
Snore or have untreated nasal blockages
Consume alcohol, smoke, or excess caffeine
Have irregular routines or high stress levels
How Is It Diagnosed?
LPRD is often missed.
It doesn’t show up on X-rays or sputum tests. Many patients go from doctor to doctor without answers.
✅ But with a nasal endoscopy or throat exam by an ENT specialist, signs of reflux-related irritation can be spotted easily.
What Can You Do About It?
The good news: LPRD is very treatable once identified.
Lifestyle Tips That Work:
✔️ Have dinner 2–3 hours before bedtime
✔️ Avoid spicy, oily, and acidic foods
✔️ Reduce intake of caffeine, chocolates, and alcohol
✔️ Sleep with your head slightly elevated
✔️ Lose weight if required
✔️ Avoid tight clothing post meals
Medical Options:
Your ENT may recommend:
Acid-reducing medications
Alginate-based syrups
Prokinetic agents to improve digestion
Treating nasal/sinus issues that worsen reflux
Why Ignoring It Can Be Risky
Chronic cough affects:
Your sleep quality
Productivity at work
Daily comfort and confidence
Left untreated, LPRD can:
Damage your vocal cords
Aggravate asthma
Cause repeated respiratory infections
When to See a Doctor
If you’ve had an unexplained cough for over 3 weeks, especially one that:
Worsens at night
Flares up after meals
📌 It’s time to consult an ENT specialist — and finally get relief.
🩺 Dr. Prashanth R. Reddy
ENT & Endoscopic Sinus and Skull Base SurgeonHelping patients breathe, speak, and live better by diagnosing what others often miss.
📍 Consulting at leading hospitals across Bangalore🔍 Specialist in nasal blocks, snoring, and chronic cough evaluation
Still coughing?It might not be your lungs.
✅ Book your appointment today to breathe, sleep, and speak better.
📍 Clinic Timings – Book Your Consultation
📅 Book a Consultation Today
👨⚕️ Dr. Prashanth R. Reddy
ENT & Endoscopic Sinus Surgeon
🕐 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM (Weekdays)
🕐 1:30 PM – 3:00 PM (Saturday)
🕐 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM (Monday–Saturday)
🕐 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM (Sunday)
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