Acidic stomach contents leaking through the one-way valve at the top of the stomach into the esophagus is called reflux. Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a chronic form of reflux affecting millions of people in the United States.
Frequent reflux of acid and digestive juices from the stomach causes a variety of symptoms, and long-term exposure to this corrosive liquid can cause serious damage to tissue and structures in the esophagus, throat, mouth, and even lungs.
The most common symptom of GERD is pain in the chest often referred to as heartburn or acid indigestion. This pain, which is located behind the sternum or breastbone, usually comes on after eating and is made worse by bending over or lying down.
Common Symptoms of Acid Reflux
- Belching
- Sour taste
- Coughing
- Bloating
- Difficulty swallowing
- Intolerance of certain foods
- Pain or discomfort in the chest
- Hoarseness, especially in the morning
- Sore throat or feeling the need to clear the throat
- Sleep disruption (unable to sleep lying down)
- Regurgitation of food
- Gum inflammation
- Tooth enamel erosion
- Waterbrash (an excess of saliva)
- Vomiting blood
- Nausea and vomiting
- Wheezing
- Asthma or asthma-like symptoms
- Bad breath
- Persistent cough