What Are the Signs & Symptoms of Acid Reflux?

Acid reflux is a condition characterized by the back-flow of stomach acid into the throat. Symptoms vary. For instance, if you suffer from a mild case of reflux, you may attribute your symptoms to mere heartburn. Fortunately, there are ways to stop the back-flow. If you think you may have acid reflux, watch for other common symptoms to tell your doctor about.

Persistent Heartburn

• Experiencing persistent heartburn--especially after eating--is a sign of acid reflux disease. You may feel a burning sensation in your chest immediately after eating or a dull pain in your chest.

Abdominal Discomfort

• Even though reflux is stomach acid escaping the abdomen and back-flowing into the esophagus, reflux disease can cause a host of stomach symptoms, such as abdominal bloating or fullness, nausea and pain in the upper region of the stomach. According to HealthCentral.com, about half of people living with reflux disease experience some type of abdominal discomfort, in addition to other common symptoms.

Vomiting

• If your reflux is severe, regurgitation or vomiting may occasionally occur. Often, stomach acid settles in the chest or throat. But on occasion, it back-flows into the mouth.

Throat Problems

• The presence of stomach acid in your throat or esophagus presents a host of issues. Aside from increasing your risk of developing throat or esophageal cancer, untreated acid reflux disease can trigger chronic sore throats and dysphagia (difficult swallowing).

Chronic Cough

• If left untreated, acid reflux disease may result in a chronic cough that doesn't respond to over-the-counter cold or cough medications. This is usually a dry cough that occurs after eating or drinking, or while lying down.