Acid reflux, more commonly described as heartburn, looks like a burning feeling in the chest caused by stomach acid that travels up towards the throat, through the esophagus. If this keeps happening and becomes chronic, it is called gastro-esophageal reflux disease (GERD). Researchers estimate that about 20% of people in the United States have GERD.
Symptoms of Acid Reflux
The main symptoms of heartburn include:
- A burning sensation in the middle of the chest;
- An unpleasant taste in the mouth which is caused by stomach acid;
- Hiccups;
- A hoarse voice;
- Bad breath;
- Nausea and vomiting;
- Dental erosion;
- Difficulty or pain with swallowing;
- Wheezing;
- Dry, persistent cough;
- Bloating and feeling sick.