Evaluation of Risk Factors for Laryngopharyngeal Reflux among Sikkimese Population

Background Laryngopharyngeal reflux is a global health problem and is associated with a huge economic burden and decreased quality of life. Studies describing the epidemiology of laryngopharyngeal reflux are sparse in India and south east Asia. This study becomes significant as it is being conducted in Sikkimese population who resides in high altitude have a different lifestyle. Objective To evaluate the risk factors for laryngopharyngeal reflux among Sikkimese origin. Method Patients of Sikkimese origin visiting Ear Nose Throat outpatient department Were administered with validated questionnaire. The patients were further subjected to validate Reflux symptom Index score. Indirect laryngoscopy was performed to calculate reflux finding score. Presence of laryngopharyngeal reflux was identified with patients having reflux symptom index and reflux finding score of greater or equal to 13 or more and 7 or more. Result Out of 200 subjects analysed, there were 77(38.5%) male and 123(61.5%) female. Heartburn and regurgitation were the most common symptom among the masses. Hoarseness and frequent throat clearance were the commonest laryngopharyngeal reflux symptoms. Various risk factors were computed as mentioned in the results column. Conclusion Study on the above mentioned population differed from rest of the country in terms of dietary habits. Fermented food was found to be one of the important risk factor for the development of laryngopharyngeal reflux in the sikkimise population.