In this post, learn how I eliminated my Silent Reflux quickly and easily with a few supplements designed to address the root cause.
We will cover the following topics:
What Is Silent Reflux
As the name suggests there are some differences between silent reflux and acid reflux / GERD. In contrast, silent reflux does not necessarily cause heartburn. Symptoms may include:
- Hoarseness, inflammation of the throat and vocal chords
- Excessive throat clearing and coughing
- Mucus production and post nasal drip
As indicated in the Annals of Clinical Case Reports silent reflux has many synonyms including:
- Extraesophageal Reflux
- Supraesophageal Reflux
- Gastropharyngeal Reflux
- Atypical Reflux
- Pharyngoesophageal Reflux
- GERD Cough
- Laryngopharyngeal Reflux (LPR)
Among these many names, silent reflux is most commonly referred to as LPR.
Silent Reflux Symptoms
In addition to the more common symptoms listed above, the following complications can manifest in cases of extended silent reflux.
- Hoarseness / Pain When Speaking – A hoarse voice is often one of the first symptoms that LPR sufferers experience as the larynx (voice box) is very close to the esophagus and consequently has higher exposure to potential reflux. In fact, Laryngitis or inflammation of the larynx is a common complication as the stomach contents and gases hit the Layrnx first, before spreading into the airways.
- Bad Breath / Bitter Taste In Back of Throat – Iron, bitter or sour taste in the mouth is due to stomach contents re fluxing into the airways and mouth
- Stress – Stress, like anxiety are both side effects of social pressures and reflux medications
- Burning / Dry throat – Throat pain is one of the earliest warning signs of reflux as the vocal chords and the larynx (throat) are the closest organs to the stomach
- Excessive Belching – Copious burping goes hand in hand with silent reflux, as frequent exposure stomach gases is the cause of the vocal chord damage and burning sensations in the esophagus and mouth
- Breathing disorders, such as apnea, noisy breathing, pauses in breathing, or Choking Episodes (especially at night) – Symptoms are often the worst overnight or in the mornings, especially if laying down shortly after eating a meal or after eating a large meal
- Asthma-Like Symptoms – Asthma is a common initial misdiagnosis, this is because stomach contents aspirate into the airways, prompting an immune response that mimics asthma
- Ear infections – The ear, nose, and throat are all connected so inflammation, bacteria, and mucous responses can express through any of the three organs
- Chronic Cough and Throat Clearing – Often times this can be a non-productive cough. LPR can irritate your mucus membranes which can also stimulate coughing and throat clearing. Quite often, silent reflux sufferers are mis-diagnosed as there are countless diseases that can cause a cough
- Globus Syndrome – This is that all too familiar sensation of something stuck in your throat. This is due to inflammation and swelling of your membranes. Its not in your head, you do have something akin to a lump in your throat, it is your own swollen tissue.
- Difficulties swallowing (dysphagia) – Many LPR sufferers experience trouble swallowing due to throat inflammation
- Post Nasal Drip – Post nasal drip and mucous production is your body’s natural response to protect sensitive tissues in your nasal cavity and esophagus (throat) from acid and acid vapors. This can result in excessive mucus in your throat and airways.
- Nausea or vomitting – This can be a side effect of throat stimulation or digestive issues, which ultimately may be the source of your reflux issues.
- Frequent Infections – As acid reflux is most often a symptom of poor digestive health and low stomach acidity. In a low acid environment, pathogens (such as bacteria and viruses) are able to thrive. These pathogens are able to travel freely through open airways and through connected tissues such as the ear, nose and throat, leading to frequent infection.
- Anxiety – Anxiety is often two fold 1. social stigmas from bad breath or hoarse / muted voice and 2. a side effect of vitamin B12 deficiency, a common side effect of long term acid reflux medication usage
Be one of the few to receive a FREE copy of my new book BEFORE it releases!
How I Cured My Silent Reflux
I had GERD for 15 years and for the couple of months prior to finding a cure, my symptoms escalated sharply. Looking back, it is clear that I had mild forms of silent reflux all along.
In the last couple of months of my reflux journey it was my silent reflux that really got out of control. I can even recall the moment that triggered two months of torture. It was eating a dozen Wint-o-green life savers. As I was eating them, I felt a growing burning sensation in my stomach. The next night marked the first of the mucus, post nasal drip, awful salty sour taste, etc..
After receiving a tip from a family friend about my reflux and associated symptoms I stumbled on some alternatives to the typical Acid Blockers, H2 Blockers, and Antacids that are prescribed. What I found was these medications actually exacerbate your reflux issues, rather than heal them:
Lower Esophageal Sphincter (LES) and Diaphragmatic Sphincter
To understand why, you first need to understand the root cause of acid reflux. There is a ring of muscles between your stomach and your esophagus called the lower esophageal and diaphragmatic sphincters. These muscles are not under voluntary control, but are signaled by your body to relax and contract as necessary to allow food to pass (swallowing) and close (when not swallowing).
In fact, this ring of muscles is the reason your stomach contents are not emptied into your stomach when you bend over or hang upside down! For reflux sufferers it is the dysfunction of these muscles that allows stomach contents to reflux into the throat. As mentioned, these muscles are not under voluntary control.
Instead, rather they are signaled by your body to close when your stomach acidity and abdominal pressure reach sufficient levels during digestion.
However, acid reflux sufferers do not have sufficient acidity to signal these muscles to close. This is often misdiagnosed as being due exclusively to a hiatal hernia (as I have) or a weak LES. For most people, however this simply not the case.
The Root Causes of Reflux
Your stomach pH may have initially gotten out of balance due to poor diet, after a surgery, due to smoking, drinking, caffeinated drinks, age, by taking acid reflux medications, etc.. (for a full list view my risk factors post) Once this happens, your digestions suffers due to reduced acidity and your stomach will attempt to to slosh your little remaining acid around in attempts to better digest your food; both leading to discomfort and indigestion or reflux.
In addition, due to to low acidity, and resulting abdominal pressure, your sphincters are not signaled to seal. Lastly, due to low acidity pathogens (bacteria and viruses) are allowed to grow unchecked and thrive. They compete with your digestive enzymes reducing digestive efficiency, again leading to indigestion.
Acid Reflux Medications Make This Worse
As if this scenario were not bad enough on its own, doctors prescribe acid blockers, H2 blockers and antacids. These medicines block acid production, which exacerbates the above mentioned indigestion issues as well as guaranteeing your sphincters will not close correctly!
Patients are lulled into believing these medicines are helping them because they neutralize the uncomfortable / painful acids that escape into the throat. Consequently they decide to take them longer than the recommended 6-8 weeks, and because doctors do not have a better alternative they suggest buying over the counter or renew the prescriptions.
However, long term they will ensure co-dependency by keeping patients in a never ending cycle. The longer this goes on, the higher the doses required to manage higher quantities of stomach contents that are able to escape the open sphincters. For more on the long term side effects of prolonged acid reflux medication use see this post.
Thankfully, there is a way to break and even end this destructive cycle:
Disclosure: This is a free website so I do advertise to cover the costs of website hosting and other services. If you find the information on this site useful, please consider making a purchase using the following links as I will earn a small commission at no cost to you.
Medical Disclaimer: All content on this site is created and published online for informational purposes only. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice and should not be relied on as health or personal advice.
Silent Reflux Natural Remedies
There are three supplements that I found that eliminated my GERD and Silent Reflux entirely by addressing the above mentioned root causes. To restore sphincter function you need to restore healthy digestive function which includes digestive enzymes and promoting the production and return to normal acidity. With sufficient acidity, your body is able to signal your sphincters to close and bye bye reflux!
Digestive Enzymes – These enzymes help the body breakdown proteins, fats, milk sugars, fiber and carbohydrates. I took these supplements with meals for a few weeks until my digestion was back on track. Here is the exact brand that I used.
Apple Cider Vinegar Pills – Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV) is a great complement to the above supplements as it has a beneficial blend of prebiotics and acidity to help you restore efficient food digestion. Similar to the digestive enzymes, I took one with meals. Did you know, you should avoid taking in liquid form, even if diluted or from a straw as it is corrosive to teeth and already sensitive soft tissues? Here, I recommend in pill form which can safely dissolve in your stomach which is designed to handle high acidity. Here is the exact brand that I used.
HCl Supplements – HCl Supplements are specifically engineered to promote production of acids and a return to normal stomach acidity. It’s important to take supplements that contain pepsins (digestive enzymes) as they can grant an extra boost to your digestive efficiency. I took these supplements with meals for a few weeks until my digestion was back on track. Here is the exact brand that I used.
Note: Those with ulcers or inflammatory conditions such as gastritis or esophagitis should not use HCl. Individuals taking medicines such as steroids or anti-inflammatories should not use HCl as the combination can damage the GI lining.
Its important to use the right dose of HCl with meals. You can get my transition guide and personal journal sent you to you automatically below:
After I began taking these three supplements in combination with meals, I stopped taking my prescription reflux medications and antacids. This is important, as you might imagine because the intent of the supplements and the medications are diametrically opposed. The medications are designed to suppress acidity, while the supplements are designed to increase it!
Long Term Use of Acid Reflux Medications
If you, like me took prescription or over the counter acid reflux medications for many years, you may additionally be vitamin deficient due to poor digestive health. As noted in this article, the most common deficiencies are vitamin B12, Magnesium and Calcium.
Click here for a list of symptoms and recommended supplements to quickly resolve these deficiencies.
Wrap Up
I hope you got value out of this post!
Now, I want to hear from you:
Which recommendation from this post are you most excited to try?
Let me know by leaving a quick comment!
Don Daniels
Latest posts by Don Daniels (see all)
- How I Cured My Silent Reflux - December 28, 2020
- Book Review: 5 Best Selling Acid Reflux Books - August 12, 2020
- 5 Amazing Supplements for Acid Reflux (That Work Fast!) - August 1, 2020
Don, I just wanted to thank you for putting this information out here for all of us! I took my 17 year old son to see his ENT for the same cough that he gets consistently. Luckily, I already knew walking into his office, that it was from acid reflux. Doc did the scope and confirmed, yep, totally acid reflux and prescribed the drugs. Really? He’s 17! I was not going to start him on a drug that he would have to take on and off for the rest of his life. I started my son on the supplements and… Read more »
Hi Francine, Thank you so much for your post and for sharing this wonderful news! Congrats on your son’s speedy recovery 🙂
Don
Don, thank you for this information. After experiencing most of the symptoms you listed for years, I visited a gastroenterologist and I was diagnosed with acid reflux and hiatal hernia. That was about 5 years ago. I was put on Protonix and followed their guidelines as far as diet went. I stopped taking the medication after six months due to the long term side effects you mention. I never got rid of the throat clearing, but figured I would have to live with it. My symptoms got much worse last spring and I started the round of specialists appointments (… Read more »
Hi Linda, You are describing classic symptoms of silent reflux (no heartburn, misdiagnosis as asthma, mucus). There is a survey that you can take that will tell you the likelihood that you have silent reflux. If you would like to take it, you can find it here: https://theacidrefluxguy.com/SilentRefluxQuiz. Also, if needed, I put together a guide with the steps I took to resolve my silent reflux: https://theacidrefluxguy.com/transition
Best Regards,
Don
hi Don, a few years ago I hurt my back at work and to keep working and get through the pain I began taking ibuprofen. And I started having heart burn immediately and did for the next few months while I took the ibuprofen.I thought it was safe.. Next thing I know the doctor tells me I may have GERD. I had an upper GI and a colonoscopy. Doc says I also have chronic gastritis…So I have been taking omeprazole since then and changed my diet , but recently I have have too much burping it can go on for… Read more »
Hi Georgie, It is awful that these seemingly harmless drugs like ibuprofen and other anti-inflammatories can lead to inflammatory conditions like gastritis. You may want to consult your physician before taking these as they can potentially aggravate your gastritis.
Best Regards,
Don
Don, I stopped taking the ibuprofen about six months after my injury , when I found out about the harm they do. But it seemed too late.that now I had GERD. Before taking the Advil I had never experienced heartburn my entire life. I haven’t been the same since. My gastro doctor was of no help, after my results came back from upper GI and colonoscopy I had to ask him” so do I have GERD?”and all he said was “probably”and gave me a prescription. He hasn’t helped me at all. Now I have all these other symptoms… ones you… Read more »
Hi Don, I’m happy to have come across your website. I am 30 years old and I have been taking acid reflux tablets on and off since 2007. It got worse last year and I became deficient in vitamins as my stomach is not able to absorb the vital vitamins. I have had a lot of the symptoms you have described. Recently stinging in fingers, constantly clearing my throat and constantly feeling of chest pain. I have started on the supplements you have mentioned but it has not being completely helpful. Especially when I ate sugary food or drinks. Did… Read more »
Hi Teresa, I was careful to avoid triggers early in my transition so that I was more aware of any changes in my body. As the weeks progressed, I had less and less trouble consuming my typical triggers. Even found that I could resume drinking milk (something I had avoided for several years prior). In my experience its not required to eliminate triggers, but helpful to give you the confidence that you are indeed improving.
Best Regards,
Don
Hi Don, My symptoms started this past February at work after eating some dark chocolate at lunch with carbonated mineral water – over the proceeding months things continued to get worse where now every time I eat I have to clear my throat of mucus/cough up mucus/blow my nose. I switched from drinking pop/milk/other beverages with meals to solely water about two years ago and drink pretty much only tap water throughout the day. I went to a naturopath who recommended decolorized aloe vera and that helped after meals, but I tried tapering off after noticing it only worked a… Read more »
Hi Wayne, It sounds as though you have developed silent reflux. Interestingly enough, I can trace the development of severe silent reflux symptoms to a a handful of lifesavers that I ate. Following that the stream of mucus and post nasal drip was seemingly constant. It got worse during and after meals and I found myself getting up from the meal several times to blow my notes. Your symptoms will reduce as you eliminate triggers (chocolate, caffeine, etc..), but in my experience they will not go away without rebooting your digestive system. If you can get things back on track,… Read more »
Apologies for posting another comment, I have additional questions that I didn’t think of in my original one: Is it ok to take HCL with Gentian Root bitters? While I’m waiting for my Amazon order of supplements to come, I went to see what my local natural food store had – either an HCL with a very low dose compared to what you recommend, or one with Gentian bitters. And for a fairly superficial question: Are you able to have coffee and caffeinated now that your acidity has balanced out, without it provoking reflux issues? I haven’t been able to… Read more »
Hi Jay, No problem. I have not tried HCl in combination with bitters. My tendency would be to just try the HCl as opposed to adding another acid promoter. Not sure how potent the gentian root bitters would be on their on and stimulating sufficient acidity to close your sphincters (which is key to enabling successful transition off of the medications). I personally do not drink coffee. However, I have been able to resume a normal diet since recovering. It has been eleven months or so since I took my last ppi medication and nine months since I recovered. Best… Read more »
Thank you so much for this helpful guide. Trying to get off PPIs for the third time, and having symptoms come back as usual, I was willing to try anything. I was skeptical because it seemed like when I had vinegar in foods (e.g. salad dressings), my reflux would get worse. But I figured why not give it a try at a low dose (2tsp) VERY diluted in water – and to my shock it helped! I just got some ACV pills so that I don’t have to use the liquid, as you recommend, so I can give my esophagus… Read more »
Hi Jay, Sorry for the delayed response. My website server to have had a glitch that held email notifications for the past week. You are very welcome! I’m a huge fan of introducing food diversity, especially fermented foods. In fact, if you read between the lines in my articles the supplements are essentially fast tracking the process of rebuilding a healthy digestive system, complete with probiotic enzymes. I actually wrote a whole section on this in my book that will be releasing shortly. Fermented foods are a great supplement to your recovery. If not for the troubling issue of acid… Read more »
I have severe silent reflux. I also take low dose steroids for an autoimmune disease I have. I see that the HCI shouldn’t be mixed with steroids. Will I be able to get off the ppi meds
and heal my silent reflux with just taking the digestive enzyme and apple cider vinegar pills? Or is there something I could substitute for the HCI that would have the same results since I can’t take it because I’m on the steroid?
Hi Amy, Sorry for the delayed response. My website server to have had a glitch that held email notifications for the past week. You could try substituting digestive bitters for the HCl as I understand they can help to stimulate the production of stomach acid. Just note that I do not have personal experience with these products so I cant vouch for their effectiveness. You know, everyone’s reflux is slightly different. It could be that this combination will be sufficient for you to get off the PPIs and re-build your digestive efficiency. One thing you could try that I have… Read more »
Help Doctors don’t know what I have. They thought I have acid reflux but endoscope found no erosion or cancer and ENt did CT Sinus/facial bones without Contrast and showed no abnormalities I have a metallic taste in my mouth and excess amount of phlegm which drives me crazy. Everything I eat sticks to my teeth. Everthing I drink or eat I have to spit up all this phlegm. (even when I brush my teeth) When I get up in the morning I do the Neti pot and I usually spit up phlegm for an hour or hour and half.… Read more »
Hi Annette, Sorry for the delayed response. My website server to have had a glitch that held email notifications for the past week. Let me say, I am so sorry to hear what you are going through. I pray you find relief soon. If you indeed have acid reflux, the approach on this website may help to address your phlegm issues. It is a common response to the presence of acids / acid vapors in the soft tissues of your nose and throat. I actually just wrote a whole guide on dealing with mucus in my book that I’ll be… Read more »
Hi Don!
I read your article and I was wondering if you recommend these products for singers?
Because I am currently taking silent reflux medication and sometimes it seems like it helps and then the next day, my throat hurts again.
Hi Eliza, Sorry for the delayed response. My website server to have had a glitch that held email notifications for the past week. As a singer, I would be really thoughtful about anything I do that could affect my voice quality (good or bad). For me, it relieved the frequent hoarseness and gurgling that was present in my voice due to the presence of acids on my vocal chord. It was worse after eating. Perhaps you could provide some additional details about your experience such as: how long you have been dealing with reflux, what your diet looks like, what… Read more »
I’m so glad I stumbled upon your website. I have literally lost 10 lbs in a week from severe acid reflux. I cannot eat anything! I’m on Mylanta and Tagamet and will meet with gastro virtually this week. When would be a good time to start supplementation? Should I wait to be fully healed or diagnosed officially? I’m miserable right now. After 7 days I finally ate my first meal tonight.
Hi Mariyln, So sorry to hear what you have been going through in recent weeks. If you are meeting with a gastro, you might get some advice from him or her on your plans! Not sure how well versed they will be on alternative remedies, but hopefully they can speak to the underlying root causes of the disease and provide some commentary on the applicability to your situation. I hope you are able to find relief soon :).
Don
Don, I have been through the wringer the past 6 months. I’ve lost 50lbs in a short period of time. I’ve cut out everything – gluten, dairy, spicy, coffee, chocolate, anything acidic – and I have no relief. I’ve had endoscopies, ultrasounds, and saw a naturalist doctor who put me on tons of supplements. I even had my gallbladder removed last week after a gallstone attack! I’ve never had the typical reflux symptoms. Based on my own research, I assume I have LPR but I’ve never had the cough and I don’t really have mucus. It started with a lump… Read more »
Hi Tara, Thank you for your comment. This is such a strange disease and it manifests in so many unique ways. I truly hope you are able to find some relief soon. As you have noted, I wouldnt advise taking ACV in liquid form. It most certainly would make your throat issues worse and overtime lead to other soft tissue or tooth enamel corrosion. Digestive enzymes come in many forms. If you still have that variety you might compare the active ingredients of that brand vs the one I took (essential enzymes). Given your history of digestive challenges, you might… Read more »
I ended up seeing my GI doctor, and I mentioned your regimen. She didn’t believe digestive enzymes were necessary since my pancreatic function labs were OK, and she seemed to have never heard of taking HCl. She never even heard of LPR. I was shocked because she is younger (late 30s?) so I thought she’d be more progressive. She told me to try Pepcid AC, which I did and quickly stopped. She told me to try ACV as well, since she knew of studies that showed it works. I bought the brand you suggested and I felt burning in my… Read more »
Hi Tara, If your sphincters are open you may feel the effects of additional acidity from the ACV as it contains acetic acid. The HCl supplement is primarily geared towards activating your sphincters to close. It’s not surprising that your doctor has never heard of LPR. Most doctors, it seems are not.
Best Regards,
Don
Hi Mr Daniels my name is Caterina and I’m just giving you an update on my acid problem I’ve tried taking the Betaine HCI Chlorhydrate . I took them for about a week but unfortunately I started to experience side effects,they were making me very itchy so I had to stop taking them I’m at my wits end,any more suggestions?
Hi..I don’t even know where to start..been suffering with GERD for more than five years..the medication from the doctor help for a while until I stopped taking them..it’s the worst I’ve felt since I’ve been diagnosed..I read your article and ordered the three bottles of pills..got them yesterday and started taking them..felt a little burning and wondered if it’s normal..I took them twice per day with meals..how long do you think I’ll be seeing results..thanks for sharing your journey..I live in Jamaica so I really enjoy spicy food which I can’t eat now because I really want to get better..I… Read more »
Hi Ann, While you are transitioning away from the reflux medications it might be best to avoid triggering foods (spicy, fatty, etc..). Its not required, but can help you to isolate things that may be triggering your reflux. It is possible that you have not taken enough HCl to affect the closure of your lower esophageal sphincter. If needed, you can review my transition guide for additional details: https://theacidrefluxguy.com/transition
Best Regards,
Don
Hi Don, I have downloaded the guide and I am very excited to try this. I was wondering about the digestive enzymes and ACV, I don’t see any points on when/how often to take these supplements. Should I take one with every meal with the HCI? Or once in the morning? Would love to know how they react with each other. Thank you!
Hi Sarah, Thank you for your comment. I have updated the post to clarify this. I took one digestive enzyme and one apple cider vinegar pill each with meals. The HCl varies by meal complexity: 1 with simple meals, up to 2-3 with most meals, up to 5 with high protein meals like steak or pork chops. I describe this on the article and go into further detail on my experiences in my transition guide: https://theacidrefluxguy.com/transition. I cant speak to how they react with each other so much as describe how each work. I provide some additional detail here: https://theacidrefluxguy.com/resources/… Read more »
Thank you so much for your quick response! It’s very much appreciated.
You’re very welcome!
Hi Don! Thank you for the article! I have sliding hiatal hernia and have symptoms like yours! However, doctors are treating me for high stomach acidity and of course, medications doesnt help! How did you found out you have low stomach acidity? I am feeling i might have it too but doctors say they are sure its high. How to find out its low? Did you also do exercises to treat hiatal hernia? Thanks for the answer! Searching the web for supplements you wrote about!
Hi Anastasija, Thanks for your post. I believe I answered your question via email!
Hello. When I start this regimen do I immediately stop taking my acid reflux pills? I’m scared to stop them and get bad chest pains/burning in my chest from severe reflux. I’ve been taking magnesium and B12 for 2 years now so can I continue to take them while on this regimen? Thank You and pray to god that I am able to finally get rid of my GERD that I’ve had since 03′.
Hi Annette, I took the medications during dinner and was able to skip my medicine the next morning. I have not taken my reflux medications now for 8 months or so! Not everyone has this immediate a response. If that is the case for you, it could be that your does of HCl is not right. If you dont already have my transition guide, you can find it here https://theacidrefluxguy.com/transition. Technically, if your acidity is restored you should be able to properly digest and absorb b12 and magnesium. I’m glad you were aware of these deficiencies… I wasnt. The lack… Read more »
Hi Don! I am so excited to have found this article exclamation since March, I have been having a lot of throat clearing, postnasal drip, etc. and it seems to be in relation to eating. Allergy medications and H2 blockers have not worked. I’m so excited to try this supplement regimen. Did you have asthma-like symptoms? That is the worst for me. You mentioned the ACV, Betaine, and the digestive enzymes, then you said OR are you going to try B vitamins and magnesium. Should it be one or the other, or do you take all five? Which type of… Read more »
Hi Yvonne, I wouldn’t say I had asthma symptoms, more choking, coughing, mucus, and painful airways. Thanks for your question. They ACV, digestive enzymes, and HCl are the main supplements. The b12 and magnesium, I took to help with long term side effects of taking ppi medications. I will actually change that statement as it is a bit confusing, indicating both serve the same purpose. Thanks!
Don
I feel I have had Silent Reflux. Your article has brought to light what I need to do. Thank you so much for sharing!
You’re very welcome. Best of luck with recovery!
I see that you suggest apple cider vinegar supplements but this vinegar makes my phlegm act up so what do I do? I would really appreciate an answer
Hi Caterina, If you are taking Apple cider vinegar in liquid form, this is likely your bodies natural defense to the presence of acid on the soft tissues of your throat. It is also corrosive to teeth enamel so I don’t recommend taking it in liquid for at all, even if diluted or consumed using a straw. Now, if you are taking it in pill form and still seeing this reaction, it is likely because your lower esophageal sphincter is not closed. Apple cider vinegar contains acetic acid, so your body is likely responding in the manner notes above. Lastly,… Read more »
Thank you so much for your reply actually that’s exactly my problem the sphincter doesn’t close so I will buy the supplement you recommended and see what happens thank you again I really appreciate it
I’m curious if you found improvement with the HcL?
Wow, thank you for the thorough and well presented resource on LPR!! Iʻve felt “short of breath” constricted in my throat since March 2020, but the pandemic has made me reticent to talk about these symptoms and unable to get to a doctor. I have had my thyroid tested now and my sinuses scoped, but Iʻm certain the culprit is LPR. It is the worst and the tightness in the throat and airways can get very scary!! I am really stoked to try your recommendations. Since I am just now figuring out that this is LPR, I have a prescription… Read more »
Hi Beth, Thank you for your comment. With regards to how quickly you feel better, everyone’s different and it has a lot to do with getting the right dose of HCl. If you dont already have it, I provide additional details in my transition guide: https://theacidrefluxguy.com/transition. I didn’t request a blood test to verify my B12 deficiency. After reading the side effects there was absolutely no question in my mind that I had it :). Nearly immediately, my sleep improved, the sensitivity in my fingerprints went away, my sense of touch became more acute, my brain fog dissipated, my concentration… Read more »
Hi Don, I am not completely sure if I have just the condition, Post Nasal Drip or Silent Reflux, I have had colds on and off for the past 6 months. I have been to the doctors a number of times, he thought it maybe acid reflux. He gave me a prescription for Somac, I didn’t really stay on it long because I wanted to find out what my problem is. I have never been the type of person to take any medication, I always prefer a natural way to go. My doctor in the end said its a bit… Read more »
Hi Cherie, I am sorry for the late reply. For some reason, I didn’t see a notification of your comments. As you have indicated, it can be hard to tell if your post nasal drip is bacterial, viral, or due to silent reflux. However, if you understand the reasons for reflux induced post nasal drip, you can more easily diagnose. The reasons you get post nasal drip from reflux, is your body will naturally release a protective coating of mucus to minimize damage in the presence of acid vapors. That said, if you determine your nose starts running backward into… Read more »
Hi Don, I feel like I needed to find this article so bad! I’ve been suffering from the feeling of lump in my throat feeling like I can’t swallow, hoarseness, inflamed larynx, burping, anxiety, chest tightness feeling like I can’t get a deep breath. EVERYTHING! I’ve been to all the “ologists” . I got the flu back in December then started having all of these symptoms. I got tons of bloodwork where they said I have an under active thyroid and was told I had to start medication for that. I was having dizzy spells heart palpitations, and started having… Read more »
Hi Paige, Yes the supplements are temporary! They enabled me to get off of the reflux medications immediately and after 8 weeks I got off of the supplements as well. Sounds as though your reflux was triggered by the flu or medications, which can happen. Hope you are back to normal soon!
Don
Hi Don, Doctor diagnosed me with GERD last March. It went off for a good three months until end of June. This time, I didn’t have bloating or excessive burping but more of the throat symptoms such as a lump sensation on the throat, and sometimes it feels like there’s something poking my throat and I will occasionally get upper back pain too. I’m suspecting that this could be LPR? I just went to the doctor last weekend and he prescribed a 2weeks dose of PPI (rabeprazole). In 3 days of taking the medicines, I am not really seeing any… Read more »
Hi Roselle, The globus (feeling of a lump in your throat) and back or chest pain are common symptoms of LPR so it could be. Also, LPR is notoriously resistant to acid reflux medications. One of the tell tale signs is excessive mucus or nasal drainage. If you find the right dose of the supplements you should not need to take your medications. I have heard of people taking them at the same time and slowly weaning off of medications. As you might expect, that is a very slow process as the two counteract each other. The supplements encourage restoration… Read more »
How long did it take you to heal using the supplements? Thank you for all of this information. It has been awful and I am looking to heal. It has been a long journey and I was on PPI’s for three months and had terrible side effects. I have been off of them for almost two months.
Hi Maria, Thank you for your comments. I am happy to hear you have weaned yourself off of these terrible medications. My symptoms got so bad that I couldn’t go without them or handfuls of antacids for more than a couple hours! That said, the supplements enabled me to get off the medications without devolving into a coughing hacking mess! In fact, most of my symptoms were eliminated fairly quickly (so long as I took the supplements and in the right quantity) For me, it took 8 weeks to get back to normal. After that, I was able to get… Read more »
Maria, Thanks again for your question! It will hopefully help countless others as I have added this response to the top FAQ: How long did it take you to heal using the supplements?
Thank you so much Don. I am hopeful that I can heal from this. The silent reflux is terrifying. Just grateful there are wonderful people out there like you trying to help others heal.
Hi Don! So happy I found you, hope I can heal myself with these tips. I was diagnosed, simply, as having acid reflux by my GO and we did a couple of rounds of Prilosec and another. My naturopath, however, advised against it and told me to take DGL instead. Helped for periodic episodes. I have allergies and have had post nasal drip for some time, not sure if it is due to allergies or reflux. Over the past year I have woken with some pretty severe sore throats, thought I might have snored during the night. I did figure… Read more »
Kathleen, So glad you found the site! Just one thing to consider is taking ACV in pill form vs liquid. The reason is it contains acetic acid and is corrosive to teeth and soft tissues (throat). This is still the case if you dilute it or drink it with a straw. Would hate for you to improve your reflux situation only to find that you have irreparably damaged to your teeth or throat. I have not shared any details yet about the book. I am actually taking a little break from writing to respond to your comments :). Recognizing this… Read more »
LPR- hello Don, how are you? I hope you are well, I messaged in your Instagram account. I believe I may have LPR and have had acid reflux in the past. I’ve beeb going through it for the last 3 months. I’m lost on what to do and don’t want to take PPIs. I’ve got wheeziness, hoarsness – agony when I talk, throat pain that’s constantly there, coughing clearing throat, stomach/body pain as if I can feel the acid literally burnt I feel my body I wake up in the night or in agony, it goes to my right ear… Read more »
Hi Anj, I have also responded to your direct message on IG, so feel free to respond via either channel. First, I am sorry that you are facing this. I suffered with GERD for more than 15 years and LPR for the six months preceding my recovery. That said, I did not experience it to the level you describe. Per my personal experiences and the research I have done, I am convinced that most people experience reflux because their bodies are unable to properly close the junction between the stomach and the throat. This is particularly important for those with… Read more »
Have your symptoms gotten better? I am in the exact situation as you and it is horrible. I am in the process of seeing a therapist to deal with my anxiety, while dealing with acid reflux. It really is a stressful situation, but I am optimistic that I can get better!
I’m hoping Don Daniels gets back to me with his guide. I really want to try this the natural way and avoid the medication because I do not want to depend on it for the rest of my life.
Hi Victor, Yes I have been reflux free now for about 6 months! I stopped taking my reflux medications once I started the supplements and 8 weeks later no longer needed the supplements. I have been off all medications and pills since that time. Wish you best of luck is you decide to try this approach!
Don
That’s great to hear!!!! I’m currently on medication, and I have not bought the supplements yet. How would I transition from not taking the medication to taking the supplements? Also, is it possible for you to send me your guide? I know you said it is important to take the right dosage of HCI, I want to make sure I do it correctly.
Hi Victor, You can get my guide here https://theacidrefluxguy.com/transition
Thank you so much! I’m about to purchase all three supplements. Nothing but good reviews, so I’m confident in myself and in the supplements that they will help me. So glad I found you!!! I just started the medications about 7 weeks ago, and like you doctors told me to take this for 6-8 weeks. I’m close to being done with the medication, however, they just told me to continue to take them for an additional 6-8 weeks, and although they have helped a bit (not entirely) I know that I do not want to to continue taking these medications… Read more »
I am so grateful to have found you. You have no idea. I have been suffering severely with acid reflux/GERD for over 12 years and all the symptoms you explained in the article happened to me slowly but surely. I never stopped to address it, so recently within the last six weeks I had a horrible experience and I am healing from it now. Because of the pandemic all the doctors wanted to do was test me and give me allergy medicine and none of it worked! I got doctor bills for no reason. Not one of them diagnosed it… Read more »
You’re very welcome! Let us know how it goes 🙂
Hi Don…thank you for so much insightful information. I have all of the symptoms of awful digestion and reflux. It is making my life completely miserable cause I really cannot eat much. The dr has me on a strong ppi which I realize I need to get off. I really don’t believe it is helping much at all. I am taking a digestive enzyme but the idea of taking an acv supplement and the hcl terrifies me. The worst symptom is shortness of breath and all of the typical lpr symptoms. If I were to take these supplements, would it… Read more »
Hi Gina, Thank you for your comment! So sorry to hear about your experiences. Are you unable to eat due to throat swelling or inflammation? One key difference to note with the ACV supplements is they do not activate until they are in your stomach. It sounds as though you were taking the liquid form and even in the best case (when diluted with water) it can have corrosive effects on your throat and teeth as they go down, especially if they are already inflamed. Regarding the HCL and ACV, I can only share my experience as there is limited… Read more »
Hello, I think/believe silent reflux and it sucks. All the medication I’ve been taking hasn’t helped. I’m constantly burbling, I feel like I have something stuck in my throat and starting to experience anxiety cuz of all of it. I truly need your help to get better.
Hi Rosio, Silent reflux certainly sucks! One way to distinguish silent reflux from traditional reflux / GERD is if you experience post nasal drip or mucous in your nose, throat or mouth. This occurs as your body’s natural response to the presence of acid vapors. Regarding your throat, it sounds as though you are experiencing globus, which can often be a swelling of the tissues surrounding your lower esophageal sphincter. The burbling may be your bodies attempt to distribute low stomach acid to properly digest your food. Do you have any specific questions that I can help with?
What foods are you able to eat now ?
Hi Jess, Thanks for the question. I eat everything now! Of course, while I was healing, I took care with what I ate so I could clearly distinguish reflux triggers.
How is your acid reflux to this very day?