According to Dr. Michael Picco, gastroenterologist for the Mayo Clinic, the symptoms of acid reflux could be the early warning signs of a more serious condition, GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease). Dr. Picco states that acid reflux can be easily treated with simple lifestyle changes, such as weight loss, eating smaller meals and avoiding foods, such as fatty or fried foods, which seem to trigger your episodes. Recognizing the symptoms of acid reflux may not only bring you the relief you need now, but prevent the onset of more serious health problems in the future.
Heartburn
According to the health experts at Acid Reflux Cure, this is one of the most common symptoms associated with acid reflux. It often presents as a burning sensation in the chest and can move up into your throat, leaving a sour taste in your mouth. This feeling can last for hours at a time and will generally become worse when you lay down after eating. In some cases, people experiencing the early symptoms of a heart attack for heartburn; this can be dangerous and knowing the difference can save your life.
Regurgitation
This symptom results in the stomach acids and contents being ejected into your throat and mouth, leaving not only a bitter taste, but in some cases, pieces of food as well. It can also result in a sore throat. If reflux and a sore throat happen at the same time, the experts at Acid Reflux Cure suggest you speak to your doctor about your condition.
Dysphagia and Odynophagia
Both of these syptoms are indications of of chronic, or long-term, acid reflux, and indicates damage done to your esophagus due to ongoing reflux. Dysphagia makes swallowing difficult and often painful. You may feel as though food is stuck in your esophagus. Odynophagia may make invoke a fear of eating because swallowing has become so painful. This condition indicates a disorder of your esophagus and is an indicates the need for medical attention.
Various Symptoms
In addition to the above mentioned symptoms, there are three more you may experience as well: nausea, oral and breathing problems. Nausea is a less common symptom of acid reflux, being thought of as a symptom only when there is no other reasonable cause for it. You may find that the your teeth are beginning to decay or your gums are becoming irritated; this is due to the acid from your stomach consistently being ejected into your mouth. Finally, breathing problems may occur due to the ejected contents of your stomach becoming lodged in your esophagus or aspirated (sucked in) by your lungs. This commonly results in coughing, wheezing and pneumonia.
