GERD Symptoms: When to Seek Medical Attention for Heartburn and Discomfort

GERD, aka Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease, is a chronic digestive condition where stomach acid irritates the food pipe, leading to frequent heartburn and discomfort. The condition takes place when the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) becomes weakened or relaxes improperly, allowing stomach contents to flow back in the esophagus. 

This backward flow, called acid reflux, can cause symptoms like burning sensations in the chest, regurgitation of food or liquid, and difficulty swallowing. GERD can affect anyone, though it is more common in individuals with obesity, pregnant women, or those who smoke. 

Left untreated, it may lead to complications like esophageal damage or narrowing, ulcers, or even cancer. Understanding GERD symptoms is crucial for managing the condition and preventing its escalation. Early detection can help ease symptoms and improve quality of life.

GERD Symptoms in Adults

1. Heartburn

The most commonly known symptom of GERD is heartburn. This occurs when the acid in the stomach irritates the lining of the esophagus. Heartburn often happens after meals, when lying down, or while bending over, and can be worsened by consuming fatty, spicy, or acidic foods, as well as alcohol or caffeine.

2. Regurgitation

Regurgitation is the feeling of acid coming back into the throat or mouth, sometimes bringing food or sour liquid. It can feel like a bitter or sour taste in the back of the mouth and is often associated with lying down or bending over after eating. 

This symptom can be distressing & may occur without heartburn.

3. Difficulty Swallowing (Dysphagia)

As GERD progresses, adults may experience difficulty swallowing, a condition known as dysphagia. This may occur due to inflammation or narrowing of the esophagus from the frequent acid exposure. 

This can lead to a uncomfortable feeling of food getting stuck in the throat or sometimes chest, which may make eating more uncomfortable or even painful

4. Chest Pain

While chest pain is primarily associated with heart problems, it can also be a symptom of GERD. The pain often mimics that of a heart attack, leading some individuals to seek immediate medical attention. 

The pain typically feels tight or burning in the chest and may be aggravated by eating or lying flat. GERD-related chest pain often improves after taking antacid medication.

5. Persistent Cough

A chronic cough is another symptom of GERD, especially when the reflux reaches the throat and lungs. The acid irritates the airways, leading to a dry, persistent cough that worsens at night or after meals. Sometimes, GERD-related coughs can be mistaken for allergies or respiratory infections.

6. Sore Throat or Hoarseness

Acid reflux can also irritate the throat, leading to symptoms such as a sore throat or a distressing sensation of a lump in the throat. These symptoms often worsen in the morning and are particularly noticeable after lying down during sleep. 

The constant irritation of stomach acid can damage the vocal cords and throat, making these symptoms persistent.

7. Asthma-Like Symptoms

In some adults, GERD can trigger asthma-like symptoms. Acid reflux can cause inflammation in the airways, leading to wheezing, shortness of breath, or tightness in the chest. These symptoms may worsen when lying down or after eating a large meal.

8. Nausea and Vomiting

Some individuals with GERD may experience nausea, especially in the morning or after meals. More severe cases can lead to vomiting or the sensation of food backing up into the throat. This can occur when the stomach becomes overly full, or the reflux causes irritation in the upper digestive tract.

9. Bad Breath (Halitosis)

Chronic acid reflux can also result in bad breath, which can occur due to the acidic substances coming up from the stomach. The smell may be sour or bitter, often accompanying other GERD symptoms such as regurgitation and difficulty swallowing.

GERD Symptoms in Infants

1. Frequent Spitting Up (Regurgitation)

One of the most common symptoms of GERD in infants is frequent spitting up or regurgitation. While some amount of spitting up is normal in babies, especially in the first few months, infants with GERD may spit up large amounts of milk after feeding, which may be accompanied by discomfort. In severe cases, the spitting up may be forceful, leading to concerns about adequate nutrition.

2. Irritability and Fussiness

Infants with GERD often appear irritable or fussy, especially after feeding. This is because the acid from the stomach irritates the esophagus, causing pain or a burning sensation. Babies may cry excessively, arch their backs, or show signs of distress shortly after meals. 

This discomfort is typically most noticeable when the infant is lying down or after a feeding session.

3. Difficulty Feeding or Refusing to Eat

Because GERD causes pain and discomfort, an infant may have difficulty feeding or refusing to eat. Acid reflux can cause the baby to feel full quickly, leading to the baby pulling away from the breast or bottle. 

In some cases, babies may also show signs of choking during or after feedings as the refluxed milk irritates the throat and airways.

4. Coughing or Gagging

Infants with GERD may exhibit coughing, gagging, or even choking episodes, particularly after feedings. This occurs when the acid reflux reaches the throat or airway, leading to irritation. Some infants may sound like they are struggling to breathe or have sudden coughing episodes. 

In severe cases, GERD can trigger a wheezing sound or mimic asthma symptoms.

5. Poor Weight Gain

Frequent regurgitation and discomfort after eating can lead to poor weight gain in infants with GERD. The difficulty feeding and the potential for reduced milk intake due to pain or discomfort can result in inadequate caloric consumption. 

This can concern parents and healthcare providers, as steady weight gain is critical to an infant's health and development.

6. Arching of the Back (Sandifer Syndrome)

Some infants with GERD may exhibit a distinctive behavior known as Sandifer syndrome, where they arch their back and turn their head to one side, particularly after feedings. This reflex is believed to be a response to the pain caused by acid reflux. 

While it may look like the infant is having a seizure, this behavior is typically an involuntary response to the discomfort associated with reflux.

7. Trouble Sleeping

Because GERD symptoms worsen when the infant lies down, many babies experience disturbed sleep. They may wake up frequently, cry, or show signs of discomfort during the night. 

The pain from the acid reflux can prevent the baby from settling into a deep, restful sleep, making nights difficult for both the baby and the parents.

8. Respiratory Problems

In some cases, GERD in infants can cause respiratory issues such as wheezing, congestion, or even pneumonia. The acid reflux may irritate the airways, leading to a persistent cough or a respiratory infection. 

This is particularly concerning for infants who may already be at risk for respiratory issues.

GERD Symptoms in Older Children

1. Frequent Heartburn

Like adults, heartburn is a common symptom of GERD in older children. Children may complain of a burning sensation in the chest, especially after eating, lying down, or engaging in physical activity. 

This discomfort can be mild or more intense, often making the child irritable or anxious. Heartburn may worsen with certain foods, such as spicy, fatty, or acidic foods, or drinks like soda and juice.

2. Regurgitation and Sour Taste

Older children with GERD often experience regurgitation or a sour taste in the mouth, specifically after eating or lying down. They may complain that food or liquid comes back into their throat, leaving a bitter or sour taste. 

This can happen even without visible vomiting. Some children may also experience a sensation of food "sticking" in their throat, which can be uncomfortable and alarming for both the child and parents.

3. Difficulty Swallowing (Dysphagia)

As GERD progresses, children may develop difficulty swallowing or feel like food is getting stuck in their throat. This is known as dysphagia and can occur due to inflammation or scarring in the esophagus caused by repeated acid reflux. 

It can make eating more difficult and lead to decreased appetite or food avoidance. If left untreated, this could affect the child's nutrition and growth.

4. Coughing and Wheezing

GERD can also affect the respiratory system. Chronic coughing or wheezing may develop, especially after meals or when the child lies down. The stomach acid can irritate the airways, causing coughing fits, throat clearing, or even asthma-like symptoms. 

This is often mistaken for a cold or allergy but may indicate reflux-related respiratory issues.

5. Chest Pain

Older children with GERD may experience chest pain, which can mimic the discomfort associated with heart conditions. This pain is usually a result of acid reflux irritating the esophagus. 

The child might describe it as a tight, sharp pain in the chest, often occurring after meals. Chest pain associated with GERD usually improves after the child stands up or takes an antacid, distinguishing it from more serious conditions like heart disease.

6. Hoarseness or Sore Throat

Chronic acid reflux can lead to hoarseness or a sore throat, which may worsen in the morning or after meals. Children may complain of an itchy or painful throat or feel like something is "stuck" in their throat. 

These symptoms occur because the acid irritates the throat and vocal cords, potentially leading to voice changes or difficulty speaking.

7. Bad Breath

Halitosis, or bad breath, can indicate GERD in older children. The acid that flows back into the mouth can leave a sour, metallic, or bitter taste, contributing to persistent bad breath. This is especially noticeable in the morning when acid reflux has had more time to affect the throat and mouth overnight.

8. Poor Sleep

GERD symptoms often worsen when lying down, leading to sleep disturbances in children. They may experience trouble falling asleep, wake up in the middle of the night, or have a sore throat or chest discomfort. 

Children might also experience sleep disruptions from coughing or wheezing episodes at night, preventing them from getting restful sleep.

9. Vomiting

In some cases, children with GERD may experience vomiting. This typically happens when the acid reflux becomes severe, or the stomach is too full. The acid irritates the esophagus and stomach lining, leading to vomiting, especially after meals. 

This is more common in children with poorly controlled GERD and can contribute to poor growth and nutrition.

When to See Your Doctor?

Whether you're an adult, caring for an infant, or managing an older child's health, it's crucial to seek medical attention if GERD symptoms become frequent or severe. For adults, persistent heartburn, chest pain, regurgitation, difficulty swallowing, and unexplained coughing or wheezing are all signs that require a doctor's evaluation. 

In infants, if spitting up becomes excessive, accompanied by irritability, poor weight gain, or difficulty feeding, a pediatrician should be consulted. Similarly, in older children, if symptoms like chronic cough, chest pain, hoarseness, or trouble swallowing interfere with daily activities or lead to poor sleep, it's time to get professional guidance. 

A healthcare provider can offer diagnostic tests, prescribe medications, and suggest lifestyle changes to effectively manage the condition and prevent long-term damage.

Sterling Hospital is Your Partner in Better Health Across Gujarat

At Sterling Hospital, we provide you with the utmost care and comfort throughout your journey to a healthier life. If you are looking for the best gastro surgeon in Ahmedabad, Vadodara, or Rajkot, we've got you. With considerable years of experience, we have built a team of the best gastro surgeons in these regions to provide you with premium treatment and the best results. Contact Sterling Hospital to schedule a consultation and embark on a journey towards a healthier future.