Acid reflux symptoms and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) symptoms are similar. When they happen occasionally, it’s called acid reflux. When they happen frequently or cause complications, it may be GERD.
GERD develops when stomach acid flows backward into your esophagus repeatedly. The acid irritates the lining of the esophagus and can cause uncomfortable or persistent symptoms.
You may have GERD if you frequently experience:
If these symptoms happen often or interfere with daily life, talk with a health care provider.
GERD most commonly affects the digestive tract.
Common digestive symptoms include:
Heartburn is a burning feeling in the chest that often starts after eating or when you lie down. The burning may spread to the neck, throat or stomach. It happens when stomach acid irritates the lining of the esophagus.
Regurgitation occurs when stomach acid or food moves back into the throat or mouth. It may cause a sour or bitter taste and sometimes occurs with burping.
GERD can make swallowing uncomfortable or painful. You may feel like food is stuck in your throat or chest. Dysphagia can also make it harder to swallow pills.
Stomach acid can travel higher in the digestive tract and irritate the throat and voice box.
Symptoms may include:
Some people experience silent reflux, also called laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR). With silent reflux, stomach acid irritates the throat or voice box without causing typical heartburn.
GERD can sometimes affect the lungs and breathing.
Possible respiratory symptoms include:
Over time, stomach acid reaching the mouth can damage teeth.
Possible dental effects include:
Dentists may sometimes notice these signs before GERD is diagnosed.
GERD can cause burning chest pain that sometimes feels similar to a heart attack. The pain may range from a dull ache to sharp discomfort and is often worse after eating or when lying down.
However, chest pain should always be taken seriously.
Call 911 or seek emergency care right away if you think you may be having a heart attack.
Talk with a health care provider if:
Your provider may refer you to a gastroenterologist, a specialist who treats digestive system conditions.
A gastroenterologist may recommend additional tests such as:
Learn more about GERD testing and diagnosis.
GERD develops when the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) - the muscle valve between the esophagus and stomach - becomes weak or relaxes at the wrong time. When this happens, stomach acid can flow back into the esophagus.
Several conditions and lifestyle factors can increase the risk of GERD.
Extra weight around the abdomen can put pressure on the stomach, pushing acid into the esophagus.
Normally, the diaphragm helps support the lower esophageal sphincter. With a hiatal hernia, part of the stomach pushes through the diaphragm, weakening this support and making reflux more likely.
Hormonal changes and the pressure of a growing uterus can increase reflux during pregnancy.
Smoking weakens the lower esophageal sphincter and reduces saliva production. Saliva helps neutralize stomach acid.
Some foods and beverages may trigger reflux symptoms, including:
Triggers can vary from person to person.
Eating large meals or lying down soon after eating can make reflux more likely. Waiting at least a few hours before lying down may help reduce symptoms.
Clothing that puts pressure on the abdomen, such as tight belts or waistbands, may increase reflux.
Some medications relax the lower esophageal sphincter or irritate the esophagus, which can worsen reflux symptoms.
Examples include:
If you think a medication may be worsening reflux symptoms, talk with your health care provider before stopping or changing it.
When food stays in the stomach longer than normal, reflux symptoms may become more likely.
A condition called gastroparesis, or delayed stomach emptying, can contribute to GERD by increasing pressure in the stomach and allowing acid to move into the esophagus.
GERD is common and can often be managed with lifestyle changes, medications or other treatments.
Learn more about GERD testing, diagnosis and treatment options to find relief and prevent complications.
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