Symptoms of Gastroesophageal reflux disease or GERD as it is known can vary greatly. Symptoms of GERD can include heartburn, indigestion and chest pain. The symptoms however are not limited to these three and could include nausea, hoarseness and a sore throat. It may be difficult to distinguish the symptoms of GERD so if you feel you have any of the following sympoms please see a doctor for consultation.
Heartburn can appear behind the breastbone through a burning pain. The burning feeling could last a few moments or a few hours. This is the most common symptom of Gastroesophageal reflux disease or GERD. Not everyone who has GERD will have heartburn or just heartburn. Some individuals will have other symptoms.
Acid regurgitation is also another symptom of GERD. The acid may come back up your throat and provide a sour or bitter taste. It may also lead to Nausea. Nausea is another symptom of GERD. Not everyone who has GERD will experience Nausea.
There are several other symptoms of GERD that can show up for an individual who has developed the disease.
Some individuals experience a sore throat. Some often complain about being hoarse and not being able to talk with their normal voice. Others feel as if they have food stuck in their throat or in the chest area. All of these are symptoms or GERD.
Some may report they feel as if they are having a heart attack. It’s not uncommon for the pain to spread to the back as well. Symptoms of GERD can sometimes mirror those of a heart attack.
Symptoms of GERD can appear after eating a large meal. Fried foods, caffeine, chocolate, alcohol, smoking, garlic and mints are all triggers of Gastroesophageal reflux disease. Patients with GERD should try to limit or avoid these items or face the tough consequences that comes with them.
Lying flat on a bed can also trigger symptoms of GERD. Use a pillow to prop your head up at night before sleeping and never eat just before you go to bed. Symptoms of GERD can be controlled to some extent through changes in lifestyle. Consult with your physician about lifestyle changes you should make if you are experience the symptoms of GERD.
There are over the counter medications to also help you control GERD like Prilosec and Prevacid. Some symptoms of GERD might be alleviated or controlled with the use of these over the counter medications. There are other proton pump inhibitors available by prescription as well like Nexium. Consult your doctor before starting any new medication because some may interfere with others.