Symptoms of GERD

Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) presents a variety of symptoms, primarily due to the irritation and damage caused by stomach acid repeatedly flowing back into the esophagus. Recognizing these symptoms can help in seeking appropriate treatment.

Common Symptoms of GERD

1. Heartburn

• Description: A burning sensation in the chest, usually behind the breastbone. It often occurs after eating and may be worse at night or when lying down.
• Trigger: Can be triggered by certain foods, large meals, or lying down soon after eating.

2. Regurgitation

• Description: A sour or bitter-tasting acid backing up into the throat or mouth.
• Trigger: Often occurs after eating or bending over.

3. Dysphagia

• Description: Difficulty swallowing, the sensation of food sticking in the esophagus.
• Trigger: Caused by inflammation or narrowing of the esophagus.

4. Chest Pain

• Description: Sharp or burning chest pain, which may mimic heart pain (angina). It can be severe and may spread to the back, neck, or arms.
• Trigger: Often confused with heart-related pain but is typically related to reflux.

5. Chronic Cough

• Description: A persistent cough that is not due to a respiratory infection or chronic lung disease.
• Trigger: Caused by acid irritating the throat or lungs, or by the reflex to clear the throat of acid.

6. Hoarseness or Sore Throat

• Description: Hoarseness or a sore throat, especially in the morning.
• Trigger: Caused by irritation from acid reflux affecting the vocal cords.

7. Laryngitis

• Description: Inflammation of the larynx, leading to voice changes, hoarseness, or loss of voice.
• Trigger: Repeated exposure of the larynx to stomach acid.

8. Globus Sensation

• Description: A feeling of a lump in the throat without an actual lump being present.
• Trigger: Sensation is usually persistent and unrelated to eating.

9. Asthma-like Symptoms

• Description: Wheezing or shortness of breath.
• Trigger: Acid reflux can exacerbate or mimic asthma symptoms.

Less Common Symptoms

1. Nausea

• Description: A feeling of wanting to vomit, sometimes occurring after meals.
• Trigger: Linked to the irritation of the stomach and esophagus lining.

2. Hiccups

• Description: Frequent hiccups that may be difficult to control.
• Trigger: Irritation of the diaphragm due to reflux.

3. Bad Breath (Halitosis)

• Description: Persistent bad breath not related to oral hygiene.
• Trigger: Caused by acid and food particles regurgitating into the mouth.

4. Dental Erosion

• Description: Wear on the teeth due to acid exposure.
• Trigger: Stomach acid affecting the enamel of the teeth through frequent regurgitation.

Symptoms in Children and Infants

GERD can also occur in children and infants, with symptoms that can include:

• Vomiting or regurgitation
• Crying or irritability during or after feeding
• Refusal to eat or difficulty feeding
• Poor weight gain
• Coughing or wheezing
• Frequent burping or hiccups