Impact of Laryngopharyngeal Reflux on Professional Singers

Abstract

Laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR) is retrograde flow of gastric content to the larynx and pharynx where these materials come in contact with the upper aerodigestive tract. It is an inflammatory disease associated with voice disorders and lesions in vocal fold. Presence of LPR among professional voice users such as singers can have a dramatic impact on voice quality. Singers are high-risk candidates for LPR because of necessary air support involving higher intra-abdominal pressure, more stress due to professional career, uncomfortable schedules, late meals before going to sleep, and bad food habits such as increased intake of citrus products, fatty, and spicy foods. The objective of this article is to review the current etiopathogenesis, clinical presentations, diagnosis, treatment, and lifestyle modification in cases of singers suffering from LPR and to propose a new patient-related outcome.