Gastroespohageal reflux disease (GERD), or erosive esophagitis, is a disorder characterized by a backwards flow of stomach acid from the stomach into the esophagus, according to MERCK. The lining of the stomach normally protects the organ from the acid; however, the esophagus does not have any protection. The acid damages the tissue of the esophagus and this causes many of the symptoms associated with GERD. Diagnosis of the disease can usually be done when the patient experiences the most common symptoms.
Heartburn
The most common symptom of GERD is heartburn, according to USA Today. Heartburn is a burning pain usually located behind the breastbone. The heartburn occurs within 30 to 60 minutes after eating. The pain tends to increase when the patient eats, lies down, or exercises. These actions tend to increase the amount of acid in the stomach or place the patient in positions, which force acid into the esophagus. This can lead to the painful burning sensation of heartburn. The pain can be referred to the chest. This chest pain is also a symptom of GERD, according to the Mayo Clinic.
Esophagitis
Inflammation of the esophagus, or esophagitis, can be a cause of bleeding in patients with GERD, according to MERCK. The acid attacking the blood vessels in the esophagus can cause the bleeding. The bleeding can be very minimal or massive. The blood is either vomited by the patient, or excreted by the patient in the stool. If there is bleeding, patients should seek immediate treatment in order to avoid a life-threatening blood loss. The pain may spread to the throat or surrounding areas, according to the Mayo Clinic. Heartburn may also leave a sour, acidic taste in the patient's mouth.
Swallowing Difficulty
Difficulty swallowing is termed dysphagia. This condition, as reported by the Mayo Clinic, is a common symptom experienced by patients with GERD. MERCK states that a narrowing of the esophagus, caused by the acid reflux, is what causes the dysphagia. The narrow esophageal tube makes it harder for the food to enter the stomach and causes the patient to have trouble swallowing.
Respiratory Problems
Problems with breathing, cough, or asthma are less typical symptoms of GERD, according to the Mayo Clinic. These symptoms are caused by a narrowing of the airways that is a response to the damage caused by the acid reflux typical in GERD patients. Breathing problems in patients with GERD must be evaluated for other causes before being solely linked to the reflux disease.
