Acid reflux occurs when stomach contents back up into the esophagus and throat because a muscle valve in the esophagus does not work properly, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Acid reflux causes discomfort in the upper chest and throat. Many people have throat symptoms during heartburn, the painful sensation caused by acid reflux. According to the University of Michigan Health System, some have throat difficulties without connecting the problem to acid reflux if they do not experience typical heartburn symptoms.
Burning
Acid reflux often results in a burning feeling in the throat that can include a sour, bitter or acidic taste in the back of the throat or mouth from what doctors call acid regurgitation. In rare instances, regurgitation can result in vomiting. Chronic sore throat and frequent hiccups can occur from persistent acid reflux, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center.
Difficulty Swallowing
According to the Cleveland Clinic, some people have difficulty swallowing from frequent heartburn. A feeling that food is stuck in the throat or the middle of the chest can occur. The pain can become severe, indicating temporary spasms in the throat tissues or serious esophageal damage. Long-term acid reflux can indicate gastroesophageal reflux disease, or GERD. Some patients with GERD can develop Barrett's esophagus, causing abnormal changes to cells that can lead to cancer of the esophagus, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. GERD causes chronic throat conditions if left untreated.
Vocal Problems
Voice problems can result from acid reflux, according to the University of Michigan Health System. It can happen to people unaware they have heartburn--conditions known as silent reflux or atypical reflux. Stomach acid can back up without the usual symptoms of heartburn, but acidic juices still can damage the throat. Sore throat, hoarseness, frequent throat clearing or excessive mucous and a sensation of a lump in the throat can occur. Some people can experience wheezing or choking spells. Chronic acid reflux can cause vocal fold scarring, particularly noticeable in speakers and singers. Pneumonia and ulcers in the throat strike some sufferers of frequent acid reflux.
Coughing
Chronic cough commonly occurs for people with GERD, according to the website ScienceDaily.com. GERD patients suffer frequent bouts of heartburn because a weakened esophageal muscle does not close tightly to stop acid backup. Some patients suffer from reflux of non-acid stomach contents and can benefit from anti-reflux surgery. Medication that reduces or prevents acid production may not help these people. Medical tests can determine if they are candidates for surgery, usually viewed as a last resort to treat severe acid reflux. Surgery involves strengthening the esophageal muscle to help it close properly and reduce acid reflux.
Children's Symptoms
Throat pain in children with acid reflux can result in coughing or wheezing. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, it can indicate disorders in the throat, nose, ear or lungs. Infants with frequent acid regurgitation show signs of choking, gagging, irritability and arching of the back. Symptoms of GERD in children include chronic coughing, wheezing or gasping from sleep apnea, a condition that causes breathing to stop temporarily during sleep. Children with GERD can also experience severe vomiting.
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease and Heartburn - Symptoms
- 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
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease and Heartburn - Complications
