Gastroesophageal reflux (GERD) is a common digestive disorder affecting people of all ages. It occurs when the stomach acid flows back into the esophagus, leading to heartburn, chest pain, and other uncomfortable symptoms.

While some people experience mild symptoms, others may have severe GERD, and the symptoms could affect their daily life.

Signs of GERD

Some common signs of GERD include:.

1. Heartburn

Heartburn is the most common symptom of GERD. It’s a burning sensation in the chest and throat that usually occurs after eating or lying down. The sensation may worsen when bending over or lying down flat on the back.

The discomfort of heartburn often feels like a burning pain that tends to go away after taking antacids or after a few hours. However, if the heartburn persists or becomes more frequent, it could be a symptom of GERD.

2. Regurgitation

Regurgitation is another common symptom of GERD, which involves the backflow of stomach contents into the esophagus. This can result in a sour or bitter taste in the mouth, and it may lead to coughing, choking, or difficulty swallowing.

Regurgitation can be a particularly uncomfortable symptom for people who experience it while sleeping, as the stomach acids can cause lungs to spasm and coughing.

3. Chest Pain

Chest pain is another common symptom of GERD. It can occur when the acid from the stomach irritates the esophageal wall, resulting in pain or discomfort around the chest area.

Chest pain can be mistaken for a heart attack or angina and can cause considerable anxiety for many people experiencing it.

4. Nausea and Vomiting

Nausea and vomiting are other symptoms that people with GERD may experience. These symptoms are generally associated with a feeling of bloating, fullness, and discomfort.

While nausea and vomiting may occur on occasion, some people may experience these symptoms more frequently and even be brought on by certain foods or beverages.

5. Difficulty swallowing

Difficulty swallowing or dysphagia is another common symptom of GERD. It occurs when the acid damages the esophageal lining, and scar tissue forms. This can cause narrowing of the esophagus, making it difficult to swallow even liquids.

People experiencing dysphagia may feel as though they have a lump in their throat, and they may cough or gag when trying to eat.

Conclusion

If you experience any of these symptoms, it is important to talk to your doctor about your concerns. GERD can have a significant impact on a person’s quality of life, so it’s crucial to identify and manage the symptoms early on.

Simple lifestyle changes, such as losing weight or avoiding trigger foods, may be enough to relieve the symptoms of GERD. However, for some people, medication may be necessary to control the symptoms.