Gastroesophageal reflux disease, abbreviated GERD, is a condition in which the contents of the stomach flow backwards into the esophagus or throat. In the United States, approximately 10 to 20 million people are estimated to have GERD, according to the Society of Thoracic Surgeons. The most common symptoms typically arise along the gastrointestinal tract, and include heartburn and regurgitation, but some people may also experience extragastrointestinal manifestations of GERD that do not affect the stomach or intestines. Affected people should consult a physician for further evaluation and care.
Chest Pain or Cough
People with GERD may experience unusual sensations of pain within the chest accompanied by persistent dry cough symptoms, MayoClinic.com reports. Recurrent or persistent coughing episodes can exacerbate chest discomfort in affected people. Sensations of pain in the chest can be mild to moderate in severity and may be most apparent after eating a meal. People who experience chest pain, especially sudden or severe symptoms, should seek immediate medical care, as this can also be a symptom of a heart attack.
Breathing Difficulties
Acid that flows from the stomach into the throat may irritate a person's respiratory tract. Consequently, people with GERD may develop breathing difficulties that mimic those experienced by people with asthma, a type of long-term lung disease, the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse explains. Breathing difficulties may include shortness of breath or wheezing, which may become worse during physical movement. These breathing complications typically occur in conjunction with chest discomfort or coughing symptoms. If severe or acute breathing difficulties arise, affected people should consult a medical professional for further evaluation and care.
Vocal Hoarseness, Sore Throat or Bad Breath
When stomach acid reaches the throat, it can severely inflame the sensitive throat tissue and the vocal box, which sits near the top of the throat. Affected people may develop a sore throat or an unusually raspy or rough voice, notes the website KidsHealth. Throat discomfort can contribute to a diminished appetite or may lead to difficulty swallowing. Certain people may also develop unpleasant or odorous breath as a consequence of GERD. People with mild GERD may develop intermittent symptoms, while people with severe GERD may experience persistent or chronic discomfort.
