Acid reflux and symptoms of Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) can vary widely from individual to individual. Some people experience chronic symptoms of acid reflux several times a week. Other people experience silent reflux, which occurs without noticeable symptoms.
Acid Reflux Symptoms
Acid reflux symptoms are most often experienced as heartburn, a burning, painful experience caused by esophageal reflux. Heartburn is often experienced as a burning sensation in the stomach or chest area.
Also common is regurgitation, which occurs when stomach acid and stomach contents enter the esophagus and flow back into the mouth. Regurgitated contents have a sour, lingering taste. Stomach acid in regurgitated contents can burn the back of the throat, causing pain and discomfort.
GERD symptoms also include dysphasia, or difficulty swallowing. Food may seem to stick in the throat momentarily, causing gagging. Of all the symptoms of acid reflux disease difficulty swallowing is one of the most unnerving, as there is a momentary sensation of choking.
Uncommon GERD Symptoms
Less common acid reflux symptoms include coughing and chest pain. If esophageal reflux damages the vocal cords, hoarseness can develop. Hoarseness is most common in the mornings, as lying down increases the chances of esophageal reflux
If stomach acid reaches the salivary glands, the glands may flood the mouth with a sour, salty liquid called water brash. Water brash and esophageal reflux can cause chronic bad breath.
Lifestyle and Acid Reflux Symptoms
Contrary to popular belief, lifestyle is not one of the causes of GERD. Lifestyle choices can, however, worsen GERD symptoms. Alcohol, smoking, and certain foods can aggravate GERD symptoms. Foods that cause acid reflux to worsen include fatty and fried foods.
Eating large meals before bedtime, lack of exercise, tight clothes or belts, and overeating can also worsen acid reflux and symptoms of GERD.
Silent Reflux
Silent reflux refers to GERD that presents without noticeable symptoms. Some people have a low sensitivity to acid in the esophagus, and do not notice esophageal reflux as much as others. In such cases, it is easy to disregard occasional GERD symptoms as simple heartburn.
The lack of acid reflux symptoms does not, however, mean that acid reflux is not damaging the esophagus. The lack of GERD symptoms can mean that silent reflux damage is quite advanced when it is finally diagnosed. Long-term silent reflux damage increases the risk of acid reflux complications.
Acid Reflux Symptoms and Pregnancy
It's not unusual to experience acid reflux and symptoms of GERD during pregnancy. Changes in hormonal levels coupled with pressure from the expanding uterus often combine to cause acid reflux during pregnancy. Fortunately, GERD symptoms usually resolve quickly after birth.
Infant Acid Reflux
Most people call it "spitting up," but symptoms of GERD are very common in infants. Infant acid reflux occurs because the baby's digestive system is still maturing. Unlike adult GERD, infant acid reflux symptoms in infants are rarely cause for concern. Most babies can spit up stomach contents and remain healthy and happy.
Disclaimer: The information contained within this article is for informational purposes only, and is not intended to be a substitute in any way for care and treatment by a qualified health professional.
