3 Common Symptoms Of Acid Reflux
1. Heartburn
Heartburn is the primary symptom of GERD. It is a burning sensation that radiates up from the stomach to the chest and throat. Heartburn is most likely to occur in connection with the following activities :
- After a heavy meal
- Bending over
- Lifting
- Lying down, particularly on the back
According to study, nearly three-quarters of patients with frequent GERD symptoms experience them at night. Patients with nighttime GERD also tend to experience more severe pain than those whose symptoms occur at other times. Study found that patients with night-time pain reported levels of severity that were similar to those reported in angina and congestive heart failure.
The severity of heartburn does not necessarily indicate actual injury in the esophagus. For example, Barrett's esophagus, which causes precancerous changes in the esophagus, may trigger few symptoms, especially in elderly people. On the other hand, people can suffer severe heartburn without the presence of damage to the esophagus.
2. Dyspepsia
Up to half of GERD patients have dyspepsia, a syndrome consisting of the following :
- Pain and discomfort in the upper abdomen
- Fullness in the stomach
- Nausea after eating
3. Regurgitation
Regurgitation is the feeling of acid backing up in the throat. Sometimes acid regurgitates as far as the mouth and be experienced as a "wet burp." Uncommonly, it may come out forcefully as vomit.