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Images of Reflux Laryngitis

Diagram of Stomach Acid Backflow Path Causing Voice Disorders

Diagram showing backflow of stomach fluids to voicebox.

Laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR) results from backflow of stomach fluids from the stomach (yellow) into the esophagus (lower green), then up the esophagus (pink), through the upper esophageal sphincter and into the throat and voice box area (laryngopharynx) (upper green). Stomach fluids are irritating to the surface lining of the esophagus, nose and throat area (naso-oropharynx purple) and voice box area. This results in swelling of exposed areas. Vocal folds (red), especially the back part, can get irritated and swollen when exposed to stomach fluid backflow.

This diagram can be found in Reflux Laryngitis: Understanding the Disorder.

 
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