15 Most Common Symptoms of Acid Reflux & How To Find Relief

15 Most Common Symptoms of Acid Reflux & How To Find Relief

If you frequently experience a burning feeling rising from your stomach after meals, you may be suffering from acid reflux. This common condition affects over 20 million Americans. While occasional reflux is normal, chronic symptoms can significantly disrupt your life. Learning to identify the signs of acid reflux is key to getting an accurate diagnosis and proper treatment to find relief.

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What is Acid Reflux?

Acid reflux, also called gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), occurs when stomach acid flows back into the esophagus. The esophagus is the tube connecting your mouth and stomach. Normally, a ring of muscle called the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) prevents acid from escaping the stomach. But when the LES becomes weakened or relaxes inappropriately, acidic stomach contents can rise up into the esophagus. This reflux causes uncomfortable symptoms. Mild or occasional reflux is typical, but consistent symptoms may indicate GERD.

 

Common Symptoms of Acid Reflux:

  • Heartburn – A painful, burning discomfort rising from the stomach into the chest and throat, typically after meals. It may feel like chest pain.
  • Regurgitation – The sensation of stomach acid coming back into the mouth, accompanied by a bitter or sour taste.
  • Dysphagia – Difficulty swallowing or feeling like food is stuck in the throat or chest.
  • Chronic cough – Acid reflux can irritate the throat and lungs, provoking persistent coughing.
  • Laryngitis – Frequent exposure to stomach acid causes inflammation and hoarseness of the vocal cords.
  • Disrupted sleep – Nighttime reflux may wake someone from sleep.
  • Dental erosion – Stomach acid damages tooth enamel over time.

 

Less Common Acid Reflux Symptoms:

  • Nausea
  • Belching
  • Water brash – Sudden excess saliva production
  • Asthma flare-ups
  • Recurrent pneumonia
  • Chronic sore throat
  • Bad breath
  • Gastrointestinal bleeding – In severe cases

Pay attention to any persistent digestive discomfort, as acid reflux can mimic other conditions. Keeping a symptom diary noting any triggers helps identify patterns.

 

What Causes These Symptoms?

GERD results when the LES fails to close properly, enabling stomach acid to flow upwards. But various factors can contribute to a malfunctioning LES:

  • Hiatal hernia – Part of the stomach pushes up through the diaphragm, impairing the LES.
  • Pregnancy – Hormonal changes and increased pressure relax the LES.
  • Obesity and excess weight – Extra weight strains the LES. Even modest weight loss can help.
  • Certain medications – Drugs like NSAIDs, calcium channel blockers, sedatives, and antihistamines may worsen GERD.
  • Smoking – Damages the LES muscle.
  • Some foods and drinks – Spicy foods, alcohol, caffeine, and citrus are common triggers.
  • Large meals – Overeating expands the stomach and strains the LES.

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When to See a Doctor About Symptoms

Consult a doctor if you experience:

  • Frequent heartburn more than twice weekly
  • Difficulty or pain swallowing that persists
  • Chronic cough or asthma not responding to treatment
  • Hoarseness lasting over two weeks
  • Disrupted sleep from nighttime reflux
  • Unintentional weight loss or loss of appetite
  • Vomiting blood or coffee ground-like material

Reporting your full range of symptoms aids diagnosis. Testing can check for complications and direct appropriate treatment. These may include endoscopy, pH monitoring, manometry, and barium swallow x-rays. Don’t rely on antacids alone – seek an accurate diagnosis.

Treating Acid Reflux Symptoms

Several effective options exist for managing symptoms:

Lifestyle Changes

Making healthy lifestyle adjustments is recommended as first-line treatment:

  • Losing excess weight to reduce strain on the LES
  • Avoiding trigger foods like alcohol, citrus, tomatoes, caffeine, etc.
  • Quitting smoking, which damages the LES
  • Wearing loose-fitting clothing
  • Remaining upright for 2-3 hours after eating
  • Eating smaller, slower meals instead of large portions
  • Managing stress through yoga, meditation, etc.

Medications

If lifestyle changes alone are insufficient, medications can reduce acid production:

  • Antacids provide quick relief by neutralizing acid, but effects are short-term.
  • H2 blockers lessen acid secretion more long-term.
  • Proton pump inhibitors or PPIs significantly reduce acid production.
  • Prokinetics like Reglan tighten the LES while improving stomach emptying.

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Alternative Remedies

Some alternative remedies may also aid in symptom relief:

  • Certain herbal supplements can reduce inflammation or coat the esophagus.
  • Melatonin helps strengthen the LES and promotes restful sleep.
  • Probiotics balance gut bacteria to support digestion.
  • Acid buffers like calcium carbonate neutralize excess stomach acid.

For chronic sufferers, prescription medications or surgical procedures may be warranted alongside lifestyle adjustments. But identifying problematic symptoms early and making dietary and habit changes can often effectively control acid reflux. Pay attention to your body’s signals and take steps to find relief.

 

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