Acid Reflux
Acid reflux is the “back-flow” of stomach contents into the esophagus. The esophagus connects the throat to the stomach. Laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR) is a similar problem that involves the “back-flow” of stomach contents into the back of the throat and larynx (voice box). This reflux might even extend into the nose and sinuses. The relatively recent diagnosis of LPR appeared within the last 20 years, as the ability to test for acid reflux became possible.
LPR patients can experience one or more of the following symptoms:
- Chronic throat clearing
- Hoarseness
- “Phlegm in the throat”
- “Lump in the throat”
- Trouble swallowing
- Post-nasal drainage
- “Sinus trouble”
Other names for LPR would include:
- Extraesophageal reflux
- Silent reflux
- Gastroenterologists (GI doctors) might label these people as “atypical refluxers”
- Pulmonologists (lung doctors) might label these people as having chronic cough or refractory asthma
The doctors of NEO Associates have considerable experience in the evaluation and management of chronic LPR patients. We have the latest equipment to measure acid reflux with ambulatory 24-hour double-probe pH monitoring. This is a painless and effective way of measuring the degree of acid reflux and determining whether you might benefit from anti-reflux treatment.
For information on this testing, see information on the web about the Digitrapper at www.medtronic.com/neuro/gastro/ambreflux/amb_digitrapper.html
Dizziness
We are frequently asked to see patients for the evaluation of dizziness. The process of evaluating dizziness requires a detailed history and careful ear, nose and throat examination. NEO Associates can provide the special testing often necessary to fully evaluate dizziness. These tests include a comprehensive audiogram, acoustic reflex testing, tympanograms, and Dix-Hallpike positional testing performed utilizing Frenzel lenses.
The single most common cause of room-spinning vertigo is Benign Positional Vertigo (BPV). BPV is often treated with the Epley maneuver, an exercise done in the office. For more information on the Epley maneuver see http://www.epleymaneuver.com/
We have successfully treated hundreds of patients with the Epley maneuver. Other causes of dizziness are too numerous to discuss in detail here, but we welcome you to come in for a thorough evaluation.