I was diagnosed with asthma 4 years ago, but I could never figure out what triggered the episodes (which were basically chest tightness and difficulty taking deep breaths). Just recently I began to realize that the attacks seemes to come on after eating too much at night, or when I hadn't eaten in a long time.

So my dad mentioned that it's possible my breathing problems are being caused by acid reflux, so I began doing some research, and now I am wondering if I might have LPR. I would appreciate any opinions / advice on this.

Here are my symptoms: (These are intermittent and periodic rather than chronic or constant).

* Hoarseness in the mornings, usually only after I have eaten too much the night before
* Lots of mucus
* Needing to clear my throat a lot

Also, sometimes I get pain in my back between my shoulder blades, and it does seem to coincide with my breathing episodes. Is this related to LPR?

Can LPR be managed through lifestyle changes alone? I would prefer to not have to begin a medicine regimen.

Thanks :)