What are the symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)?
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Symptoms of Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)
Typical Symptoms: Heartburn and Regurgitation
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is primarily characterized by two hallmark symptoms: heartburn and regurgitation. Heartburn is a burning sensation in the chest, often after eating, which might be worse at night or when lying down. Regurgitation involves the backflow of stomach contents into the throat or mouth, leading to a sour or bitter taste .
Atypical Symptoms: Chest Pain, Cough, and Laryngitis
In addition to the typical symptoms, GERD can present with atypical manifestations. These include noncardiac chest pain, chronic cough, and laryngitis. These symptoms can sometimes be misleading and may not immediately suggest GERD as the underlying cause .
Oral and Maxillofacial Symptoms: Dental Erosion and Xerostomia
GERD can also affect oral health, leading to dental erosion, xerostomia (dry mouth), mucositis, and other oral lesions. Patients may experience a sour taste, burning mouth, and even temporomandibular disorder (TMD) due to the acidic nature of the refluxate .
Respiratory Symptoms: Asthma and Chronic Cough
GERD has been linked to various respiratory issues, including asthma, chronic cough, and even interstitial lung diseases. The reflux of stomach contents can irritate the airways and lungs, exacerbating these conditions and making them harder to control.
Alarm Symptoms: Dysphagia and Weight Loss
Certain symptoms are considered alarm symptoms and warrant immediate medical evaluation. Dysphagia, or difficulty swallowing, is one such symptom and can indicate more severe complications like esophageal strictures or cancer. Unintentional weight loss is another alarm symptom that requires prompt investigation .
Pediatric Symptoms: Vomiting and Irritability
In infants and children, GERD symptoms can include frequent vomiting, irritability, and feeding difficulties. These symptoms tend to decrease as the child grows older, but they can significantly impact the quality of life and require careful management.
Conclusion
GERD is a multifaceted condition with a wide range of symptoms affecting various parts of the body. While heartburn and regurgitation are the most common symptoms, atypical manifestations like chest pain, cough, and oral health issues are also prevalent. Alarm symptoms such as dysphagia and weight loss necessitate immediate medical attention. Understanding the diverse symptoms of GERD is crucial for effective diagnosis and management.
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