Not everyone who has acid reflux experiences all these symptoms.
In addition, symptoms can be slightly different in young children.
This article explains acid reflux symptoms, complications, triggers, and treatment.
Grace Cary/ Getty Images
Grace Cary/ Getty Images
How Do Symptoms of Acid Reflux Feel?
However, when you experience constant acid reflux, it is called gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).
You’ll know if you have acid reflux or GERD based on the frequency and severity of your symptoms.
GERD develops when the lower esophageal sphincter weakens.
But what else could acid reflux be?
And could it be mistaken for another condition?
Clinical guidelines for diagnosing GERD point out the possibility ofdifferential diagnoses(conditions that share the same symptoms).
Acid Reflux at Night and on Waking
Acid reflux tends to be worse at night while sleeping.
Similarly, you may find that youwake up with heartburn.
That’s because you don’t have gravity on your side while lying flat.
So, stomach acid may be more likely to cause problems while you sleep.
Experts recommend waiting two to three hours after eating before lying down tostop acid reflux while sleeping.
Complications With Symptoms of Acid Reflux
Untreated, acid reflux and GERD can result in complications.
What Triggers Symptoms of Acid Reflux?
When it comes to acid reflux triggers, everyone experiences them differently.
Commonacid reflux triggersinclude:
Discovering which foods trigger acid reflux may take time.
The key is to watch for a pattern.
Agastroenterologistspecializes in treating digestive disorders, including acid reflux.
They may do tests to rule out other conditions.
Sometimes, simple heartburn remedies don’t work because acid reflux does not cause the symptoms.
That’s why getting an accurate assessment early on is essential.
Only then can you find the most appropriate treatment.
Surgery is usually a last resort when other treatments fail.
Summary
Acid reflux commonly feels like a burning sensation in the center of the chest.
Some people also experience regurgitation, nausea, difficulty swallowing, coughing, and hoarseness.
Fortunately, most people can manage acid reflux through lifestyle changes and medication.
Rarely, surgery is used as a last resort.
National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases.Symptoms and causes of GER and GERD.
National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases.Symptoms and causes of GER and GERD in children.
2020;20(1):275. doi:10.1186/s12876-020-01410-z
MedlinePlus.Gastroesophageal reflux disease.
National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases.Eating, diet, and nutrition for GER and GERD.
National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases.Treatment for GER and GERD.
