7 Acid Reflux Signs and Symptoms

Medically reviewed by Jay N. Yepuri, MD

Acid reflux causes stomach content to flow back into the esophagus. This tube connects the stomach and throat. What does acid reflux feel like? Symptoms include a persistent cough, heartburn, and nausea.

Occasional acid reflux is usually not something to be concerned about. Having symptoms two or more times per week may be a sign of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). GERD is a digestive disorder in which your esophagus does not close correctly. Read on to learn what acid reflux feels like and when to see a healthcare provider.

Related: Signs and Symptoms of Acute and Chronic Hepatitis

1. Heartburn

Heartburn, the most common sign of acid reflux, feels like burning in your upper chest. This feeling rises from behind the breastbone to the bottom of the throat. You may also have sharp chest pains, which is also a sign of a heart attack. It's important to contact a healthcare provider if you develop crushing chest pain.

Stomach acid traveling up toward the throat causes heartburn. Heartburn typically happens after eating, especially after eating large, rich meals. Alcohol, coffee, tomato sauce, chocolate, and spicy foods can trigger heartburn.

2. Nausea

You may experience a sour taste in your mouth from your stomach acids. This taste, along with frequent burping and coughing, can create nausea and even vomiting. An increase in stomach acid from the irritation of the esophagus and throat may also cause nausea.

Nausea can happen on its own or occur with other symptoms like heartburn, bloating, and belching. Frequent nausea may be a sign of GERD or other health conditions.

3. Regurgitation

Regurgitation happens when stomach contents flow back through the esophagus and into the throat and mouth. What comes back up may include undigested food, stomach acid, and a yellowish-greenish liquid (bile).

Regurgitation can feel like burning, warm liquid built up in the throat and the back of the mouth. The result is a bitter aftertaste. Frequent regurgitation may be a sign of GERD and may irritate the lining of your stomach, esophagus, and throat.

4. Persistent Cough

Frequent acid reflux can irritate the esophagus, larynx, and voice box from exposure to stomach acid. You may develop a chronic cough, wheezing, and other breathing difficulties. A chronic cough is usually a sign of GERD, although occasional acid reflux can make you cough.

5. Hoarse Voice

Repeated exposure to stomach acid may affect the voice box. You may develop discomfort when speaking, sore throat, and voice changes. Hoarseness is usually worse in the morning and gets better throughout the day.

6. Difficulty Swallowing

Stomach acid may irritate and eventually damage the larynx as it travels up through the esophagus and into the throat. The larynx plays a large role in breathing, speaking, and swallowing.

Difficulty swallowing is typically seen in people with GERD. This digestive disorder can affect the upper esophageal sphincter (UES), a zone located between the esophagus and the back of the throat. GERD may also cause esophagus hypersensitivity to stomach acid, resulting in swallowing issues.

7. Frequent Asthma Attacks

Asthma and acid reflux may occur together, but the connection is unclear as to why. Acid reflux can trigger bronchospasm, or a tightening of the muscles that line your airways. Bronchospasm can worsen underlying asthma and cause coughing, wheezing, and difficulty breathing.

Acid reflux may be the trigger if your asthma gets worse after meals, lying down, or exercising. You can manage asthma with medicated inhalers, but it can be dangerous if untreated.

Related: Signs and Symptoms of Crohn’s Disease

When To Contact a Healthcare Provider

Occasional acid reflux symptoms do not usually require medical attention. Lifestyle and diet changes and antacids can ease symptoms. Frequent acid reflux, in contrast, may be a sign of GERD. Contact a healthcare provider if you have acid reflux two or more times per week. They can rule out more severe health conditions and advise treatment.

Get medical attention right away if you have:

• Blood in your stool and vomit

• Chest pains

• Difficulty breathing and wheezing

• Rapid weight loss

• Trouble swallowing and painful swallowing

Questions To Ask Your Provider

You may ask a healthcare provider some of the following questions if you seek further care for acid reflux:

• Does acid reflux worsen over time?

• How long do acid reflux symptoms typically last?

• What foods can help prevent acid reflux?

A Quick Review

An occasional bout of heartburn after a heavy meal is likely more of an annoyance than a significant concern. However, chronic and persistent acid reflux can be a sign of GERD. The most common signs of acid reflux include heartburn and regurgitation. Other symptoms may include coughing and difficulty swallowing. Visit a healthcare provider if you have frequent or severe symptoms.

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