Today show co-anchor Savannah Guthrie revealed on Wednesday that she has been diagnosed with laryngopharyngeal reflux disease, also known as “silent reflux.” This condition is different from the more commonly known gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). With GERD, acid from the stomach travels up to the chest area and causes symptoms such as heartburn. However, with silent reflux, the acid reaches the throat and can affect the voice box, causing symptoms such as hoarseness, chronic throat clearing, and laryngitis.
Guthrie, 51, shared her diagnosis with her co-hosts during the show, jokingly saying that she would rather deal with the consequences of the disease than make the necessary lifestyle changes. She expressed her reluctance to change her diet and follow the recommended treatment plan.
Dr. Tara Narula, NBC News Medical Correspondent, explained that silent reflux can often go unnoticed as its symptoms can be mistaken for other conditions like asthma, allergies, or a common cold. However, an ear, nose, and throat doctor can identify the condition based on a combination of symptoms.
Dr. Narula emphasized that lifestyle changes, including dietary adjustments, play a significant role in managing silent reflux. She advised Guthrie on ways to manage reflux during holiday meals, such as eating earlier in the day and avoiding trigger foods like spicy and fried foods, citrus fruits, alcohol, coffee, and chocolate.
Guthrie humorously responded that the recommended dietary changes described her current diet. Dr. Narula also suggested wearing loose-fitting clothing and avoiding bending over after meals. Chewing gum can sometimes help, and maintaining a healthy weight, exercising, and avoiding smoking are also important lifestyle changes.
While silent reflux may seem like an inconvenience, Dr. Narula warned that if left untreated, it can lead to serious health risks. The acid and enzymes can cause inflammation and damage to the delicate tissues in the throat, leading to vocal cord lesions, ulcers, strictures, and even laryngeal cancer. It can also result in lung issues, worsening of asthma, and chronic sinus or ear infections.
Despite the potential health risks, Guthrie jokingly expressed her reluctance to make the necessary lifestyle changes. She listed the foods and drinks she would have to avoid, including caffeine, alcohol, chocolate, fatty foods, tomatoes, and limes in her cocktails. She concluded by saying, “Why am I even alive at this point!? I’ll take the hoarse voice!”
