Can Acid Reflux Cause a Sore Throat?

Yes, acid reflux can definitely cause a sore throat. When stomach acid backs up into the esophagus, it can travel high enough to reach the throat and voice box, causing irritation and inflammation. This condition, known as laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR), affects up to 10% of the population. The acidic gastric contents irritate the delicate tissues in your throat, leading to symptoms like throat pain, hoarseness, chronic cough, and a feeling of something stuck in your throat. Unlike typical heartburn, LPR often occurs without chest pain, making the throat the primary symptom. The irritation typically worsens at night when lying flat allows acid to travel upward more easily.