Heartburn is the main symptom of GERD. It is a feeling of burning behind the breastbone. Overeating or lying down after a big meal can make it worse. Many people also have regurgitation. This when food and fluid move back up to the back of the throat or into the mouth.
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The fluids from the stomach can cause:
- A sour or bitter taste
- A feeling of a lump in the throat
- Burping
- Bloating
- Bad breath
Regular backflow of stomach acid causes problems in the throat and structures around it. This can lead to:
- Sore throat
- Laryngitis
- A lasting cough
- Wheezing or breathing problems
- Repeated throat clearing
Babies with GERD may also have cycles of vomiting. This can keep them from getting the nutrients they need. Without them, their growth will slow down.
Long term problems from GERD are:
- Esophageal inflammation—esophagitis
- Esophageal bleeding and sores
- Esophageal stricture—narrowing of the esophagus
- Stomach acid that wears away the enamel on the teeth
- Asthma flare ups
- Aspiration pneumonia—acid that refluxes from the stomach and into the lungs
- Acid changes the esophageal cells— Barrett esophagus
- Esophageal cancer
Esophageal muscles can tighten or spasm. This can cause pain that moves through the chest and back. Its symptoms can be like those of a heart attack.
References
Acid reflux (GER and GERD) in adults. National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases website. Available at: https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/digestive-diseases/acid-reflux-ger-gerd-adults. Accessed March 18, 2022.
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). American Gastroenterological Association website. Available at: https://aga-cms-assets.s3.amazonaws.com/2018214195040---All%5FGERD%5F2017.pdf. Accessed March 18, 2022.
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). EBSCO DynaMed website. Available at: https://www.dynamed.com/condition/gastroesophageal-reflux-disease-gerd. Accessed March 18, 2022.
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Merck Manual Professional Version. Available at: https://www.merckmanuals.com/professional/gastrointestinal-disorders/esophageal-and-swallowing-disorders/gastroesophageal-reflux-disease-gerd. Accessed March 18, 2022.
Revision Information
- Reviewer: EBSCO Medical Review Board EBSCO Medical Review Board Daniel A. Ostrovsky, MD
- Review Date: 11/2021
- Update Date: 03/21/2022