Symptoms and Signs
The most common symptom of GERD is heartburn or acid indigestion. It usually affects middle-aged men or women.
The symptom often presents itself at night and may wake up the patient. The person may find some relief by propping a couple of pillows under their head and thus letting gravity prevent the reflux from climbing up the esophagus. Smoking and consumption of alcohol can make the condition worse.
Other symptoms include-
- Chest pain
- Hoarse voice, especially in the morning
- Burning sensation in mouth
- Choking sensation
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- Excessive clearing of the throat
- Difficulty in swallowing
- Bad breath
- Chronic dry cough
- Chest pain
In severe cases, the complications include-
- Barrett’s esophagus - A few people with chronic GERD may develop this condition whereby some of the tissues in the esophagus lining begins to resemble intestinal tissues.
- Esophagal cancer - Malignancy in the tissues of esophagus
- Erosive Esophagitis - Inflammation and swelling of esophagus
- Esophageal Strictures - Gradual narrowing of esophagus resulting in swallowing dificulties
