Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a chronic condition in which the stomach’s contents regularly back up into the esophagus, causing symptoms such as acid reflux, burping, and heartburn. It can lead to complications if left untreated. Knowing the symptoms of GERD is crucial for early diagnosis and proper management of the condition.
This article will outline the common symptoms of GERD, as well as how they can be managed and treated. If you experience any of these symptoms, it is important to consult a healthcare professional for proper evaluation and diagnosis.
Heartburn
One of the most common symptoms of GERD is a burning sensation in the chest, known as heartburn. This is caused by the backflow of stomach acid into the esophagus, which irritates the lining of the esophagus and leads to discomfort. Heartburn often occurs after eating, especially after consuming acidic or spicy foods, and can be exacerbated when lying down.
To manage heartburn, avoid trigger foods, eat smaller meals, and avoid lying down immediately after eating. Over-the-counter medications such as antacids or proton pump inhibitors may also provide relief.
Regurgitation
Regurgitation is another common symptom of GERD, which involves the sensation of acid backing up into the throat or mouth. This can cause a sour or bitter taste in the mouth, as well as the feeling of food coming back up after swallowing. Regurgitation can also lead to complications such as dental problems or respiratory issues if left untreated.
To manage regurgitation, elevate the head of the bed, avoid lying down after eating, and eat smaller, more frequent meals. Avoiding trigger foods such as citrus fruits, tomatoes, and caffeine may also help alleviate symptoms.
Dysphagia
GERD can also cause difficulty in swallowing, a condition known as dysphagia. This can occur when stomach acid irritates the esophagus, causing inflammation and narrowing of the esophageal passage. Dysphagia can lead to a feeling of food sticking in the throat, and may be accompanied by pain or discomfort when swallowing.
To manage dysphagia, it is important to eat slowly and chew food thoroughly. Avoiding large bites and consuming plenty of fluids with meals can also help make swallowing easier. In severe cases, a healthcare professional may recommend treatments such as esophageal dilation or medication to help alleviate symptoms.
Chronic Cough
GERD can manifest as a chronic cough, which is often persistent and non-productive. This occurs when stomach acid irritates the throat, leading to inflammation and triggering the cough reflex. A chronic cough caused by GERD may worsen at night or after eating, and can be mistaken for respiratory conditions such as asthma.
To manage a chronic cough associated with GERD, it is important to treat the underlying acid reflux. Lifestyle modifications such as avoiding trigger foods, eating smaller meals, and elevating the head of the bed can help alleviate symptoms. Healthcare professionals may also prescribe medications to reduce acid production and suppress the cough reflex.
Chest Pain
Some individuals with GERD may experience chest pain that can be mistaken for a heart attack. This pain can be sharp, burning, or pressure-like, and may radiate to the back, neck, or arms. Chest pain caused by GERD is often triggered by eating, lying down, or bending over.
To manage chest pain associated with GERD, it is important to seek medical attention to rule out any cardiac issues. Lifestyle modifications such as avoiding trigger foods, eating smaller meals, and maintaining a healthy weight can help reduce the frequency and severity of chest pain. Over-the-counter medications or prescription drugs may also be used to alleviate symptoms.
Hoarseness
GERD can cause inflammation and irritation of the vocal cords, leading to hoarseness or a raspy voice. This occurs when stomach acid backs up into the throat, causing irritation and swelling. Hoarseness caused by GERD may be persistent and worsen in the morning or after eating.
To manage hoarseness, it is important to treat the underlying acid reflux. Lifestyle modifications such as avoiding trigger foods and eating smaller, more frequent meals can help reduce the frequency and severity of hoarseness. In severe cases, healthcare professionals may recommend treatments such as vocal cord therapy or surgery to alleviate symptoms.
Asthma Symptoms
Some individuals with GERD may experience worsening asthma symptoms such as coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath. This occurs when stomach acid irritates the airways, triggering inflammation and leading to asthma exacerbations. Managing GERD is crucial for controlling asthma symptoms and improving respiratory function.
To manage asthma symptoms associated with GERD, it is important to treat the underlying acid reflux. Healthcare professionals may recommend lifestyle modifications such as avoiding trigger foods and eating smaller, more frequent meals. Medications such as proton pump inhibitors may also be used to reduce acid production and alleviate asthma symptoms.
Excessive Salivation
GERD can lead to excessive salivation, also known as water brash, which is the body’s response to stomach acid backing up into the esophagus. This can cause a sour or bitter taste in the mouth, as well as an increase in saliva production. Excessive salivation may be particularly bothersome after eating or when lying down.
To manage excessive salivation, it is important to treat the underlying acid reflux. Lifestyle modifications such as avoiding trigger foods, eating smaller meals, and elevating the head of the bed can help alleviate symptoms. Over-the-counter medications such as antacids or prescription drugs may also be used to reduce acid production and decrease salivation.
Tooth Erosion
Chronic acid reflux from GERD can lead to tooth erosion and dental problems. This occurs when stomach acid backs up into the mouth, causing enamel erosion and decay. Individuals with GERD may experience tooth sensitivity, cavities, and a change in the appearance of their teeth due to acid exposure.
To manage tooth erosion associated with GERD, it is important to treat the underlying acid reflux and seek dental care for any existing dental issues. Lifestyle modifications such as avoiding trigger foods, eating smaller meals, and maintaining good oral hygiene can help prevent further tooth erosion. Healthcare professionals may also recommend treatments such as fluoride treatments or dental restorations to alleviate symptoms.
Laryngitis
Chronic irritation of the larynx from acid reflux can lead to laryngitis, which is characterized by hoarseness, a sore throat, and difficulty speaking. This occurs when stomach acid irritates the vocal cords, causing inflammation and affecting voice quality. Laryngitis caused by GERD may be persistent and worsen with continued acid exposure.
To manage laryngitis, it is important to treat the underlying acid reflux. Lifestyle modifications such as avoiding trigger foods and eating smaller, more frequent meals can help reduce the frequency and severity of laryngitis. In severe cases, healthcare professionals may recommend treatments such as vocal cord therapy or surgery to alleviate symptoms.
