Daily Mirror (Northern Ireland)

Ask Dr Miriam

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QDuring the past few years I find myself clearing my throat all the time. Sometimes it’s very difficult and I end up coughing for ages to get the phlegm up. Is there anything I can do for it? A Quite often this chronic throat clearing is due to inflammati­on of the larynx from acid reflux, and if so, the acid reflux must be treated before tackling the throat clearing.

Doctors regularly give antacid drugs for persistent throat symptoms such as a cough, throat clearing or the sensation of a lump in the throat. These drugs treat acid reflux but we don’t have proof they’re effective for coughing. Some doctors will suggest a small dose of amitriptyl­ine to quell anxiety which may be a contributi­ng factor.

You could try an over-the-counter stomach preparatio­n for indigestio­n which forms a protective layer that floats on top of the stomach contents. This prevents stomach acid refluxing up the gullet.

Many people try this for persistent throat symptoms but it’s not known if it’s more effective than a placebo.

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