Gastroesophageal reflux or GERD is when the stomach acid flows into the esophagus, where it does not belong. In due course of time, the acid can cause irritation, damage, and symptoms that can get progressively worse.
However, if it is left untreated, it can lead to changes in cell structures in the esophagus and increase the risk of esophageal cancer.
In this article, you will discover the signs and symptoms of acid reflux.
So, if you are one of them, book an acid reflux specialist today.
5 Acid Reflux Symptoms And Signs
GERD, or Gastroesophageal reflux disease, is a digestive issue in which your esophagus does not close correctly.
Here are some common signs and symptoms of acid reflux that would need you to see an acid reflux specialist.
1. Heartburn
Heartburn is one of the most common signs of acid reflux. You will experience a chest burn in the upward direction.
Thus, this feeling rises from behind the breastbone to the bottom of the throat. Moreover, you might also have severe chest pain, which might lead to a heart attack.
Hence, it is important to contact a healthcare provider if you develop crushing chest pain.
It is stomach acid that travels upward and causes heartburn. Similarly, it typically happens after eating, specifically after a rich meal or eating in large portions.
However, avoid spicy food, alcohol, chocolate, and tomato sauce, as it can trigger heartburn.
2. Regurgitation
Regurgitation occurs when stomach content flows backward through the food pipe and into the mouth or throat. Thus, you might experience stomach acid, a yellowish-greenish liquid, and undigested food.
Therefore, regurgitation can feel like warm, burning liquid in the throat and at the back of the mouth. The result is an acidic aftertaste.
However, if you are experiencing frequent regurgitation, it might be a sign of GERD. If not treated at the right time, it might damage the stomach, throat, and esophagus lining.
3. Nausea
You may experience a sour taste in your mouth from your stomach acids. Thus, the taste, along with frequent burping, can create nausea.
However, if there is an increase in stomach acid from irritation of the esophagus and throat, it can cause nausea.
Moreover, it can happen on its own and might occur with other symptoms. In this situation, you might experience bloating, belching, and heartburn.
Similarly, there might be frequent nausea which can be a sign of GERD and other health conditions.
4. Difficulty In Swallowing
Stomach acid might irritate and eventually damage the larynx as it travels up through the esophagus and throat.
Thus, the larynx plays an integral role in speaking, breathing, and swallowing.
Similarly, difficulty in swallowing is typically seen in people who suffer from GERD. This digestive disorder can damage your upper esophagus and back of the throat.
Moreover, GERD might cause esophagus hypersensitivity to stomach acid, which ultimately results in swallowing problems.
5. Frequent Asthma Attack
Acid reflux and asthma might occur together, but the connection between these two symptoms is unclear as to why.
Thus, acid reflux can hamper bronchospasm or bronchospasm that can worsen underlying asthma and cause difficulty breathing, wheezing, and coughing.
Similarly, acid reflux might cause your asthma, and it might worsen after having meals, exercising, and lying down.
Thus, you can cure your asthma with inhalers prescribed by healthcare professionals, but it might turn out dangerous if not treated for a long time.
When To Contact A Healthcare Provider?
Occasional acid reflux signs do not require any medical attention. Diet and lifestyle changes can ease symptoms.
But, if you are suffering from frequent acid reflux, it might be a sign of GERD. So do not delay and contact a healthcare provider if you have acid reflux two or more times a week.
Therefore, they can rule out more severe health conditions that might need immediate treatment. Thus, get medical attention right away if you are suffering from the following:
- Chest pains.
- Blood in your vomit or stool.
- Rapid weight loss.
- Difficulty in wheezing and breathing.
- Trouble swallowing.
- Painful swallowing.
Summing Up
If you are experiencing any of the symptoms mentioned above and signs, it is time to see a gastroenterologist.
Thus, an occasional heartburn after a heavy meal is a significant concern.
Therefore, persistent chronic acid reflux is a sign of GERD. The most common sign of acid reflux includes regurgitation and heartburn.
Meanwhile, the other symptoms include difficulty swallowing and coughing.
Hence, visit a healthcare provider if you have frequent and severe symptoms.
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