Experiencing uneasiness after having a hearty meal is fairly common. But if the uneasiness is persistent and is accompanied by more than heartburn, then the possibility of GERD cannot be ruled out.
GERD stands for Gastroesophageal reflux disease. It is a condition wherein the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) does not close properly leading to a reflux or a backflow of the stomach contents, including the acid, into the esophagus. The esophagus gets irritated whenever it comes in contact with the acid. It is then termed as heartburn. However, if the heartburn is experienced regularly, the condition is termed as GERD.
But how can you be sure that you are suffering from GERD? Well, there are many symptoms, which indicate that you are suffering for GERD. The main symptom of GERD is that the person experiences constant regurgitation after having a meal. In other words, the swallowed food comes back into the mouth. Heartburn is another major symptom displayed by those suffering from acid reflux. The burning sensation often starts in the upper abdomen and is later felt in the neck etc. Many sufferers of acid reflux also experience chest pains. Chest sensation is another common symptom displayed by those suffering from acid reflux. Here the patient feels as if the food is trapped behind the breastbone. However, it is important mentioning that sometimes chest pain is an indication of an impending heart attack. And as such, chest pains must not be ignored.
Patients suffering from GERD also experience dry cough. They also go through the feeling of having a lump in the throat. Hence, most GERD sufferers are often found clearing their throats. Hoarseness is an additional symptom, which indicates the presence of acid reflux. The feeling is especially strong during the mornings.
Dysphagia is one more symptom displayed by those suffering acid reflux. A person suffering from GERD often has trouble in swallowing the food or the food morsels get stuck in the throat. This condition is known as Dysphagia. Having a Dysphagia is a serious condition as it indicates that the esophagus has been seriously damaged or is suffering from abnormalities.
People suffering from GERD often feel nausea. In some rare cases, one can actually suffer from vomiting. Sometimes bad breath can also be a symptom of acid reflux. Many a times GERD sufferers also complaint about a feeling of stomach fullness.
Thus people suffering from acid reflux show many symptoms. Most of these symptoms are observed in the upper region of the body. These symptoms should not be ignored as acid reflux can lead to further complications.