Gastroesophageal reflux disease, otherwise known as GERD, is a common condition that is usually caused by a change in the relationship between the stomach and the lower esophageal sphincter, the muscle that separates the stomach and its contents from the esophagus. This relationship change causes many of the symptoms of GERD and can become more aggravated over time unless treatment is sought. Knowing the most common GERD symptoms will help to recognize when you are suffering this ailment so you can seek treatment early.  The following are some of the symptoms of GERD that are common among most sufferers.

Heartburn – Perhaps the most common symptom of GERD, heartburn is caused when stomach acid escapes through the lower esophageal sphincter. This acid is corrosive and can cause damage to the mucus lining of the esophagus and then to the muscle itself, possibly causing permanent impairment of function. Heartburn is usually described as a stinging, burning, painful sensation concentrated in the chest and throat that radiates upward. This pain can be aggravated depending on diet and posture. Nevertheless, while heartburn is the most common GERD symptom, it is not uncommon for patients with GERD to have no heartburn symptoms.

Hoarseness – Stomach acid, if left untreated, can eventually irritate the larynx, causing a person’s voice to become hoarse. This can eventually become chronic enough that speaking becomes painful or difficult to do at length, leading into the next symptom.

Laryngitis – Chronic GERD can prompt this voice losing condition. Reversing laryngitis can usually be accomplished by preventing or treating GERD at length.

Sore Throat – Constant acid reflux can cause the tissue of the esophagus and throat to become irritated and raw.

Nausea – GERD can disrupt the workings of the inner ear through acid reflux. This can affect equilibrium and cause headaches and nausea.

Dry Cough – Although not clearly understood as to how GERD can cause dry cough, this chronic condition is often reported at night time or after meals. This cough can be severe enough to disrupt sleep. This is one of the more common GERD symptoms for people who do not register heartburn.

Asthma – A serious GERD symptom, acid reflux due to GERD can cause a number of the nerves in the lungs to constrict airways, thereby simulating the symptoms of asthma. Shortness of breath is common but if left untreated these asthma like symptoms can develop into a permanent condition.

Lumps in the Throat – Irritated tissue in the esophagus can become inflamed, causing the sensation of having lumps or swelling in the throat.

Ear Aches – The throat and inner ear are linked closely together. Constant acid reflux can cause the inner ear to be disrupted or to become inflamed, causing aches and precipitating nausea.

Speaking to your doctor about GERD is advised if you are continually plagued with these symptoms even after taking over the counter products for acid indigestion or acid reflux. Medication can be prescribed to help reduce the amount of acid release by the stomach and for tightening up the separation between the stomach and esophagus. Diet and lifestyle choices can also be altered to help reduce the likelihood of acid indigestion and the flare up of GERD symptoms.