In gastroesophageal reflux disease--GERD--the contents of the stomach flow backward into the esophagus because the esophageal sphincter, a ring-liked muscle the joins the esophagus and stomach, malfunctions. A stretched sphincter allows stomach acid and food to splash back up into the esophagus, causing the symptoms of severe acid reflux.
Heartburn
Heartburn, the primary symptom of severe acid reflux, produces a burning discomfort behind the lower part of the breastbone. Symptoms of heartburn generally occur soon after eating a heavy meal. Other activities that can contribute to severe heartburn include bending over, lifting and lying down, particularly on the back, too soon after eating.
Discomfort Behind Breastbone
Chest sensation is the feeling that food is getting stuck in the middle area of the chest behind the breastbone. “Patients with GERD may have chest pain similar to angina or heart pain,” according to the American College of Gastroenterology, and generally "have other symptoms like heartburn and acid regurgitation."
Asthma
“Acid reflux may aggravate asthma. Recent studies suggest that the majority of asthmatics have acid reflux,” according to the American College of Gastroenterology.
Some Uncommon Symptoms
If refluxed acid irritates the windpipe, a "persistent cough, particularly at night sometimes occurs," according to Patient.Co.UK. Other symptoms include bad breath, lumps in the throat, sore throat and hoarseness.
