Signs & Symptoms of Acid Refulx

Acid reflux, also commonly known as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), is a medical condition which is characterized by the returning of the gastric juices from the stomach into the esophagus, also known as the swallowing tube. This reflux of the juices most commonly occurs due to temporary or permanent modifications in the barriers separating the esophagus and the stomach. There are various signs and symptoms that are commonly associated with acid reflux. Some of the most common symptoms are elucidated and listed below.

HeartBurn

• Heartburn, also known as pyrosis, is one of the common symptoms that is often associated with acid reflux. Heartburn is defined as a medical condition which is characterized by burning sensation and severe pain in the esophagus and in the lower regions of the chest. This pain can spread to other regions of the body as well such as the neck, the jaw and the throat. Despite the fact that it is called heartburn, this condition has nothing to do with the heart. It is named so as the patient often experiences pain near the chest bone where the heart is located.

Dysphagia

• Another common symptom which is often associated with acid reflux is dysphagia. Dysphagia is defined as a medical condition in which an individual faces extreme difficulties in swallowing food. This condition mostly occurs due to the blocking of the food passage (esophagus) in the body which is caused by acid reflux.

Regurgitation

• Regurgitation is also one of the common symptoms which patients suffering from acid reflux often suffer. Regurgitation is defined as a phenomenon which is characterized by returning of the food into the mouth due to acid reflux. In most cases of acid reflux the food containing the acidic juices are returned and accumulated in the lower regions of the esophagus, however in certain rare cases this food gets accumulated in the upper regions of the esophagus and hence reaches the mouth. This phenomenon is called regurgitation.

Nausea and Vomiting

• Nausea and vomiting are also common symptoms associated with acid reflux. Due to the accumulation of the food in the esophagus, patients offer complain of nausea which in turn may lead to vomiting.

Other Common Symptoms of Acid Reflux

• Various other common symptoms which are often associated with individuals suffering from acid reflux include development of asthma, hoarseness in voice, erosion of the enamel present on the teeth and excessive salvation.