Gastroesophageal reflux can be defined the passage of the stomach contents above the level of the esophagus entrance without vomiting. Causes of reflux include overweight, consumption of spicy and fatty foods, consumption of foods such as mint, orange, chocolate, cocoa, excessive drinking of tea and coffee, consumption of soft drinks, alcohol, and gastric hernia.

Heartburn is the classical symptom of reflux. However, patients with the type of reflux that concerns the Ear Nose and Throat area that is called 'Atypical Reflux' or 'Laryngopharyngeal Reflux' might present with other symptoms such as . hoarseness, persistent cough, or globus pharyngeus. In addition, a relationship has been established between reflux and many other diseases such as sinusitis, pharyngitis, otitis media, laryngeal cancer, and laryngotracheal stenosis.The diagnosis is based on history and laryngoscopic examination findings. The response to treatment also confirms the diagnosis. Yet, the gold standard in diagnosis is 24-hour pH monitoring, which is achieved with special tools. However, this test is not routinely applied.

In the treatment of reflux, the first step is lifestyle change. Overweight patients should lose weight and start exercising regularly. Extremely tight clothing should be avoided. Patients should stop eating at least 3 hours before going to bed. Consumption of fatty foods, tea, coffee, alcohol, soft drinks, chocolate, spicy foods should be reduced.

In addition to lifestyle changes, various drugs are used in the treatment of reflux. Proton pump inhibitor (PPI) pills and antacid syrups are used most frequently. Reflux treatment can be continued for 3-6 months depending on the situation. Cases that do not improve despite lifestyle changes and medical treatment are first evaluated by gastroscopy made by a gastroenterology specialist. Today, only a minority of cases require surgical intervention.