Why Can’t I Stop Clearing My Throat?

Are you up late at night, clearing your throat for what seems like hours? Maybe you’ve tried having a humidifier going, elevating your upper body, or taking antacids. But nothing seems to be working. It might almost feel like you are sick – especially if your body starts producing mucus to help with the dryness and soreness. But, what is this?

In this blog, we’re going to be answering the following questions (spoiler alert!): is constant throat clearing serious, how do I stop compulsive throat clearing, and can acid reflux cause constant throat clearing?

Is Constant Throat Clearing Serious?

While this issue may not seem serious to you, other than being moderately annoying, there’s actually much more going on inside your body that could be a cause for concern. Our reflux and LPR specialists always recommend having acid reflux-related issues evaluated and a plan made up. As we’ve discussed in a previous blog, 4 Complications Of Untreated GERD, acid reflux that is left untreated can lead to some more serious conditions.

So, let’s take a look at why you might be constantly clearing your throat.

What Could Be Causing This Issue?

Here at the Tampa Bay Reflux Center, we are always on the lookout for acid reflux-related issues in our patients. In fact, silent acid reflux can manifest in some strange ways that you might not first expect. It is completely possible that acid reflux is causing your need to clear your throat constantly.

So, how can acid reflux cause constant throat clearing? While speaking to an acid reflux specialist with models might help you visualize the issue, we can try to explain it to you, too. When most people think of reflux, they think of the uncomfortable, burning sensation that happens when stomach contents gurgle up into the lower esophagus. However, not all people get that burning sensation.

Whether because of medications or simply an individual having low stomach acid, reflux with low acid content still can hurt the esophagus. There are enzymes in the stomach’s secretions called pepsin. These enzymes, if left in the esophagus, can irritate the lining and cause a weird urge to cough – especially if the stomach enzymes are making their way all the way up to the spot where your esophagus and trachea join.

How Do I Stop Compulsive Throat Clearing?

You should definitely get your symptoms evaluated to see if acid reflux is to blame. However, in the meantime, make sure you are effectively clearing your throat so as to avoid as much damage as possible. We have a short tutorial in the following blog: How To Clear Your Throat When You Have Silent Reflux.

However, don’t rely on this technique – see a specialist or your general care practitioner for a referral as soon as you can. Remember, the longer you delay, the more risk you have of developing those complications: cancer, Barrett’s esophagus, and more.

Other Lifestyle Changes to Try:

If you’d like to avoid surgery (the best end-all treatment for reflux, hands-down), try out some of these lifestyle changes and see how you fare: Beat Acid Reflux With These Lifestyle Changes.

The Tampa Bay Reflux Center

If you’re looking to end your reflux concerns, whether silent or not, our team of specialists can help you figure out which procedure will help you the most. We recommend that you talk to your GCP and ask for a referral to our office; but, if you can’t do this for any reason, don’t hesitate to contact our office.