Acid reflux often causes a burning in the throat that may rise up from the chest, particularly after eating and bending over or lying down. The symptoms affect the throat because of a weakened esophageal muscle that does not shut tightly to keep stomach acid contents from rising back up into the esophagus and throat. The heartburn from acid reflux occurs more often in people who have gastroesophageal reflux disease, also called GERD. The chronic condition can result in serious disorders over time.
Identification
Symptoms of acid reflux include burning in the throat and a sour or acidic fluid taste at the back of the throat, the Cleveland Clinic notes. People may experience a feeling of food sticking in the chest or throat and difficulty swallowing. Chest pain also occurs.
Effects
Many people do not realize acid reflux, especially GERD, can result in serious problems in the throat, including hoarseness, throat clearing, a feeling of a lump in the throat, frequent sore throats and choking spells, the University of Michigan Health System explains. Chronic acid reflux may result in infectious pneumonia, infections to the larynx or voice box and infections to the upper esophagus. Children who experience recurrent pneumonia, asthma, swallowing problems and respiratory symptoms may have acid reflux as an underlying cause.
Consequences
Pulmonary fibrosis, a thickening of the tissue in the lungs usually caused by infection or injury, may result from chronic acid reflux. GERD may also worsen asthma conditions. GERD needs to be monitored on a regular basis by doctors. Medication and dietary changes can help avoid future disorders. Drugs neutralize or reduce stomach acid production. Smaller meals and avoiding certain foods can improve the condition.
Prevention/Solution
Some people with GERD may experience reflux without bringing up acid contents. The condition may result in chronic cough, according to ScienceDaily. Strong acid reflux medications, such as proton pump inhibitors, reduce the production of stomach acid to prevent acid reflux. In some cases of GERD with or without reflux of acid contents, the condition may require surgery to correct. People who cannot find relief from medication and dietary changes may choose surgical procedures. Techniques involve wrapping the upper part of the stomach around the lower esophageal sphincter or performing procedures that strengthen the esophageal sphincter to prevent further occurrences of acid reflux.
Warning
Long-term acid reflux conditions can damage the lining of the lower esophagus and lead to esophageal cancer. This may happen when GERD goes untreated, according to the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse. Persistent acid reflux can cause bleeding or ulcers, called esophagitis. Damage to the esophageal lining may cause scarred tissue that results in narrowing of the esophagus to make swallowing difficult.
References
- Cleveland Clinic: Heartburn Symptoms
- University of Michigan: Voice and Throat Problems from Acid Reflux
- ScienceDaily: Acid Reflux: GERD Can Masquerade As Persistent Cough Or Even Chest Pain
- National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse: Heartburn, Gastroesophageal Reflux (GER), and Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)
