non-acid LPR?

Just thinking aloud, based on some recent research online...

1) I believe i have LPR. If I get gunk/saliva buildup in my throat/nose/mouth but it doesn't burn, could that mean it's pepsin, not acid? Or would I have to test the pH?

2) However, if I took a pepcid tablet last night and it helped (I'm trying to use them only in dire times) does that suggest acid reflux, not pepsin?

3) Doesn't LPR mean the reflux gets into your throat and above (instead of the more typical, heartburn area of chest)? Is there anything else to distinguish it from GERD? Pepsin, instead of acid? I don't know...

Thanks!

Electracat

Have you been to see a gastro doctor to get a definite diagnosis yet?

Electracat. We wondered the same question you are asking. Here's a suggestion-- not definitive-- but we purchased ph drop test and tested sputum/gunk at different times. After placing a drop on saliva etc. You read the color from the chart and determine how acidic it is. We tested water, coffee, etc. too. Found it very informative. Drops cost $5. Because of our findings we've been using higher ph water to tame down what we think is pepsin. a2owater.com

I'm not selling this-- just thought I'd mention it for what it's worth. Let us know what your doctor tells you. Please keep us updated as we all learn from it. Wish you the best.

Thinking aloud again:

--Do I have LPR if I have indigestion along with reflux? Wasn't sure if LPR always meant 'silent', or if it only differentiates that it goes above throat, instead of the typical 'heartburn' that GERD sufferers have.

--Why exactly should I see an ENT, if I know I have a bad stomach and reflux into my nose/throat/mouth? Will he just assess damage to tissue?

--Was just reading that apparently pepsin causes damage beyond the esophagus, NOT acid (although acid 'activates' the pepsin's damaging potential. Forgot the exact reference for this. What do you think (sorry if you clarified that, DOGGBONES...Did you mean that all LPR is pepsin-caused, or that whether it's pepsin or acid, it can still be LPR)? Pat, do you think your findings mean that all LPR is pepsin-related? Sorry if I'm repeating myself!!

--In same article, they say that for LPR in whch pepsin is cause, only HCL tablets with PEPSIN in them will help. Those without won't, because, well, see above comment. :) Something to consider if you're going to try HCL tablets (i haven't tried them yet).

Thanks for any input! Be well, everyone.

Thanks, Doggbones.

electracat,
Unfortunately digestive issues are all over the map to say, kinda like which came first the chicken or the egg.

Lpr may not be your only issue, there's gerd, ibs, gastritis, etc., all of these could cause bloat/stomach indigestion. PPI's can cause stomach issue also, yes they lower stomach acid to ease reflux however the lack of stomach acid makes the food in the stomach just sit there and digest very slow....yep you guessed it causing bloat, gas, indigestion, reflux, etc.

Testing is always a plus, it can at least identify cause or rule things out.

IMO, lpr and gerd are almost hand and hand. Lpr effects the upper part of the throat, however you wouldn't be having issues of the upper throat if your bottom valve worked properly. Lpr is commenly referred to as silent reflux, so yes lpr is a result of stomach issues.