Relationship between Depression and Laryngopharyngeal Reflux

Area of Science:

• Otolaryngology
• Gastroenterology
• Psychiatry

Background:

• Laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR) is a condition affecting the throat and larynx.
• The relationship between LPR and psychological factors like depression and anxiety is not fully understood.
• Understanding these connections can improve patient diagnosis and management.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the association between laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR) and psychological conditions.
• To explore the correlation between LPR symptoms and depression, anxiety, somatization, and personality traits.
• To determine if psychological factors predict the presence of LPR.

Main Methods:

• Prospective analysis of 231 patients presenting with symptoms suggestive of LPR.
• Utilized the laryngopharyngeal reflux symptom index and reflux finding score for diagnosis.
• Assessed depression using the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 and anxiety with the 7-item Generalized Anxiety Disorder Scale.

Main Results:

• Laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR) was diagnosed in 34.2% of the study cohort.
• Patients with LPR exhibited significantly higher total scores for depression and anxiety.
• A significant association was found between the presence of LPR and depression (OR, 1.068; p=0.019).

Conclusions:

• The study indicates a significant correlation between laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR) and depression.
• Patients diagnosed with LPR may benefit from thorough psychological evaluation, particularly for depression.
• These findings highlight the importance of considering mental health in LPR management.