Symptoms of Acid Reflux  

There are several symptoms of Acid Reflux.  It is important to know these symptoms and differentiate them from other ailments for proper diagnosis and piece of mind.  For example, when there is persistent nausea and even vomiting for several weeks, it can be a sign of acid reflux.  However, in many cases, it may be attributed to an upset stomach or even pregnancy.  Therefore before rushing to judgment, other conditions such as gall bladder stone, ulcers, cancer and obstruction should be thoroughly checked and ruled out. 

Various symptoms of acid reflux 

Those that are prone to asthma or respiratory diseases may find the wheezing or asthma is also one of the symptoms of Acid Reflux.  Since they are feeling very heavy and the acid reflux is pushing against the chest, they can also feel heaviness in their chest.  In fact it’s been found that chronic acid reflux has in fact contributed to persistent coughing in non smoking patients for at least 40% of the cases. 

One of the first symptoms of Acid Reflux is heartburn, where it feels as if there is peculiar burning sensation right from the stomach to the throat area. Along with that many people even experience getting a  “bad burp” that is horrible in taste.  It is as if they can taste the acid reflux in their mouths.  This happens especially after a heavy meal or while they are sitting down or lying down.  Most will experience the heartburn during the night and many times, they mistake this symptom for angina pain or a heart problem. 

Less common symptoms of Acid Reflux are trouble in swallowing the food and a sore throat or even persistent hiccups.  Some people even experience hoarseness, dry cough and other sensations in their mouth.  

Treatment Methods 

The first acid reflux treatment that is prescribed by the doctors is antacids. There are a number of them that are available over the counter.  The main aim is to suppress the acid and also to improve the muscle function of the lower abdomen.  Those that have mild symptoms of acid reflux can be treated by making some lifestyle changes, such as exercising and eating less fats and oils.  

For those that have more severe symptoms of acid reflux, there are other ways of dealing with it.  Beyond antacids, H2 blockers or prescription drugs are often prescribed by doctors.  If the symptoms of Acid Reflux still persist, then the doctor may prescribe more tests and even conduct an endoscopy.  This would be used to determine if surgery may be necessary or whether other factors may be at play. 

However, regardless of the treatment, the first step is to determine if you have the symptoms of acid reflux.  If after review the symptoms, you believe you may have acid reflux disease, schedule an appointment with your doctor to determine what is the best treatment method for you.