Acid reflux is when some acid from the stomach leaks up into the esophagus. This can cause esophagitis in which there is inflammation of the inner lining of esophagus. The sphincter at the bottom of the esophagus normally prevents acid reflux. Problems occur when the sphincter does not work well, the pressure in the stomach increases a level higher than the sphincter can withstand. For example,
during pregnancy, after a large meal or when you bend forward.
Heartburn is the main symptom. It is burning feeling, which rises from the stomach or lower chest towards the neck. Other common symptoms include feeling sick, acid taste in the mouth, bloating, belching, stomach pains, chest pains and burning pain while swallowing hot drinks. Like heartburn, these symptoms come and go and tend to be worse after meal.
However, some uncommon symptoms may occur. This makes the diagnosis difficult in some cases as the symptoms can mimic other conditions. For example, a persistent cough, particularly at night.
Asthma symptoms can sometime be due to acid reflux. Hoarseness. Severe chest pain develops in some cases.
If you have typical symptoms, there is no need to go for tests and treatment can be started. Tests are advised only if symptoms are severe, not typical or if treatment does not improve symptoms. Tests may also be advised if you are over age 50, when symptoms first appear. Endoscopy is the commonest test. Other tests such as heart tracings and chest x-ray.
