The presence of acid in the esophagus occurs when the contents of the stomach -- food and hydrochloric acid -- reflux, or travel backward, into the esophagus. Acid reflux is called gastroesophageal reflux disease, or GERD, and is associated with a number of conditions. If acid reflux is prolonged or severe, it can cause damage to the esophagus; therefore, it is important to see your doctor if the following symptoms occur frequently or over a long period of time.
Heartburn
Symptoms of heartburn include a burning sensation in the chest, behind the breastbone, occasionally extending up into the throat. The burning sensation may also be accompanied by chest pain; however, it is vital that you seek medical help immediately if you experience chest pain, especially if it is accompanied by pain in the left arm or jaw, shortness or breath, or dizziness. These symptoms may indicate a heart attack.
Swallowing Problems
If acid is traveling into the esophagus, you may have difficulty swallowing, or you may feel like food is stuck in your throat. Swallowing may also be painful. These symptoms occur when acid irritates the lining of the esophagus; eventually, scar tissue may form at the site of damage, leading to a narrowed esophagus.
Sore Throat
The acid from the stomach may travel to the back of the throat and irritate the lining of the throat. This may cause a sore throat, hoarseness or laryngitis. Acid traveling up into the esophagus and into the back of the throat may cause a sour taste in your mouth, or you may notice bad breath. Sometimes, the presence of this excess acid may cause damage to the enamel of your teeth, notes the International Foundation for Functional Gastrointestinal Disorders.
Asthma
Acid reflux can cause signs and symptoms of asthma, such as a dry cough and trouble breathing. The exact manner in which acid reflux causes asthma symptoms is unknown; the acid may damage the lining of the airways, or the acid may trigger a nerve reflex that causes the airway to narrow.
References
- International Foundation for Functional Gastrointestinal Disorders: About GERD: Characteristics
- American College on Gastroenterology: The Word on GERD
- National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse: Heartburn, Gastrointestinal Reflux and Gastrointestinal Reflux Disease
- Cleveland Clinic: GERD and Asthma
- MayoClinic.com: GERD: Symptoms.
