Gastroesophageal reflux disease, or GERD, is a disease that causes stomach acid to escape back into the esophagus. The Mayo Clinic reports some common causes of GERD include diabetes, obesity, pregnancy and/or the presence of a hiatal hernia. In order for GERD to be diagnosed, the Mayo Clinic reports that its symptoms must occur regularly, more than twice a week.
Acid Reflux
The National Institutes of Health reports that a hiatal hernia is the condition that occurs when a portion of the stomach is pushed through an opening in the diaphragm. This can cause acid reflux, or a return of stomach acids into the esophagus. Hiatal hernias are not the only potential cause of GERD. In fact, the Mayo Clinic reports that small hiatal hernias usually have no symptoms. Larger ones, however, may lead to acid reflux and other associated GERD symptoms.
Heartburn
Hiatal hernias and other factors that cause GERD can lead to heartburn. When stomach acids creep back into the esophagus, they may cause a burning sensation. According to the Mayo Clinic, this sensation may be felt in the chest or throat. The National Digestive Disorders Information Clearinghouse (NDDIC) adds that heartburn is sometimes felt in the middle abdomen as well. Heartburn caused by GERD and/or a hiatal hernia can also create a sour taste in the mouth, depending on how far the stomach acids travel. According to the NIH, heartburn may be worse when a person bends forward or lies down flat.
Difficulty Swallowing
Another common symptom of both hiatal hernias and GERD is difficulty swallowing, according to the NIH. Also called dysphagia, this swallowing difficulty may be caused by dysfunction in the esophagus resulting from GERD. The NDDIC reports that over time, stomach acid can cause scarring of the esophagus tissue. This scarring may narrow the esophageal passageway, making it harder for food to pass through. A related symptom of GERD and hiatal hernia is the sensation of a lump in the throat, according to the Mayo Clinic.
Coughing and Wheezing
In some cases, GERD and hiatal hernias can indirectly cause respiratory symptoms. According to the NDDIC, acid reflux, such as that caused by GERD or a hiatal hernia, can trigger coughing and wheezing. The cough associated with GERD is usually dry and may resemble asthma. However, a specialized test called a pH monitoring examination may be required to determine if these symptoms are the result of GERD or caused by something else.
Chest Pain
A more serious side effect of both GERD and a hiatal hernia, according to the NIH, is chest pain. Chest pain may be the result of acid reflux felt behind the breastbone; however, the Mayo Clinic warns that any chest pain accompanied by jaw pain, arm pain or shortness of breath could be the sign of a more serious condition: a heart attack. Any unusual episodes of chest pain should be given immediate medical attention.
