Symptoms of GERD - How Do You Know If You Have GERD or Reflux?
Symptoms of GERD are mostly quite easy to recognize. In this article, I'll describe to you the classic symptoms of GERD and explain the basic treatments available for this very common condition. If you have one or more of these symptoms at least once per week then you probably have GERD.
Heartburn
Heartburn is the classic symptom of GERD and the vast majority of those with the condition will experience heartburn. Heartburn is a painful, burning sensation felt in the esophagus. As the bottom of the esophagus is located just above the stomach then the pain is normally felt in the center of the chest (but can be higher), hence the name "heartburn" despite GERD having nothing whatsoever to do with the heart.
Regurgitation
Most people will feel the acid escape into the esophagus. Some people may experience acid escaping all the way up through the throat and into the mouth. When this happens, the acid is said to have been regurgitated.
Here it has an unpleasant taste and is very corrosive - it can even burn the enamel off the teeth over time.
Hoarse Voice
Rarely, a person may have a hoarse voice. This is because acid reflux has actually affected the vocal chords. This is rarely seen and is likely to be caused by irregular factors. Such cases of GERD are normally also harder to treat.
Vomiting
Vomiting is usually a sign of other illnesses. Very rarely will a person with GERD only have the symptom of vomiting and nothing else.
Persistent Sore Throat
Again, this is a rare symptom. In most people, the acid does not reach as far as the throat.
Sinus Problems
This is not a common symptom. In those affected by it, it is more likely to occur during sleep when the body is lying flat and acid can more easily escape the stomach.
Treatment
The good news is that GERD is highly treatable with drugs, natural methods, lifestyle changes or even optional surgery.
Fed up of the daily pain from GERD? Get the key facts you need to know about this condition to defeat it and control your life again here: GERD Library.