Waking up with a sore throat every morning? Gastroenterologist Dr Rishab Sharma explains the link to silent acid reflux

Silent acid reflux, or laryngopharyngeal reflux, occurs when stomach acid reaches the throat without causing heartburn, according to gastroenterologist Dr Rishab Sharma.

Common signs include morning sore throat, persistent cough, hoarseness, frequent throat clearing, and bitter taste in the mouth.

Lifestyle habits like late-night snacking, excessive caffeine intake, and lying down after dinner can worsen silent acid reflux.

Ignoring silent acid reflux can lead to chronic inflammation, vocal cord damage, difficulty swallowing, oesophageal ulcers, and Barrett's oesophagus.

Surgical options like Nissen fundoplication are available if reflux does not improve with medication and lifestyle changes.