Reflux clinic: proof-of-concept of a Multidisciplinary European Clinic

Excerpt

It is currently well established that Laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR) is a prevalent condition in both primary care practice and otolaryngology [1, 2]. According to epidemiological studies, the prevalence of LPR-related symptoms ranged from 10 to 30% in European countries [3, 4]. The development of LPR may involve diet, lifestyle, stress, and anxiety factors [2, 5, 6]. Patients with stress and anxiety may commonly have autonomic nerve dysfunction that involves esophageal sphincter relaxation and reflux by a disruption of the balance between sympathetic and para-sympathetic nerves [6]. Regarding diet, the consumption of industrial (acidified), acid, low-protein, high-sugar and high-fat diet leads to a higher number of hypopharyngeal reflux events (HREs) and, therefore, LPR symptoms and findings [5, 7]. Celiac disease, lactose intolerance, tobacco, or alcohol consumption are all conditions that may be involved in the development of LPR or in the therapeutic resistance [2, 8]. In other words, the modern lifestyle of Western countries may be important in the development of LPR. In this context, we developed a transnational European Reflux Clinic (ERC) dedicated to the management of patient with usual or complicated LPR. The aim of this editorial is to present the proof-of-concept and the practical working of the ERC. …