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CloseDiagnosis of Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)
Signs and Symptoms of Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)
Heartburn is the most typical symptom for patients with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). A majority of patients will experience both daytime and nighttime GERD symptoms. Some patients may also complain of acid regurgitation that is best described as an acidic or sour taste in the mouth. In some patients, pain on swallowing or difficulty swallowing are also reported. More recently, nighttime GERD has become more recognized and diagnosed by both gastroenterologists and primary care physicians. Patients with chronic nighttime GERD are at greater risk for the development of severe forms of esophageal injury including:
- Esophageal scarring or "stricture"
- Bleeding resulting from ulceration or erosion of the esophagus
- Barrett's esophagus - abnormal changes in the lining of the esophagus that increases the risk for developing a type of cancer called adenocarcinoma of the esophagus.
Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) in Disguise
Over the past several years, both GERD and nighttime GERD have been associated with the development of other manifestations of the disease not involving the esophagus. Known as extraesophageal manifestations, these may include:
- Hoarseness
- Laryngitis
- Pharyngitis
- Sinusitis
- Atypical (non-cardiac) chest pain
- Asthma
- Pneumonitis
- Pulmonary fibrosis
- Chronic bronchitis
- Chronic cough
- Sleep apnea