5 Surprising Reflux Symptoms You Shouldn’t Ignore
Do you constantly feel a burning sensation in your chest or throat? Do you experience a bitter taste in your mouth or have trouble swallowing food? These are common symptoms of acid reflux, which occurs when stomach acid flows back up into the esophagus. But did you know there are other, less obvious symptoms that could also indicate reflux? Here are 5 surprising reflux symptoms you shouldn’t ignore:
1. Chronic Cough
If you’ve been coughing for weeks or even months and can’t seem to shake it off, it could be a sign of chronic reflux disease (GERD). GERD occurs when the stomach acid irritates the lining of the esophagus and causes inflammation. In turn, this can trigger a reflex that causes coughing. If you’re experiencing a chronic cough, you should talk to your doctor about whether reflux could be the culprit.
2. Hoarseness or Voice Changes
If your voice has become hoarse or raspier recently, this could also indicate a problem with reflux. The stomach acid that enters the esophagus can irritate the vocal cords and cause inflammation. Over time, this can result in changes to your voice. Additionally, if you rely on your voice for your work (e.g., singers, professional speakers), untreated reflux can impact your career.
3. Tooth Decay
If you’ve been experiencing tooth decay despite good oral hygiene, this could be a surprising symptom of reflux. The acid from your stomach can erode the enamel on your teeth, leading to decay. If you’ve been noticing issues with your teeth, talk to your dentist about whether reflux could be the cause.
4. Asthma
If you have asthma and also experience reflux symptoms, there could be a link between the two. Studies have shown that people with asthma are more likely to have reflux, and treating reflux can improve asthma symptoms in some cases. If you have both conditions, talk to your doctor about whether you should be screened for reflux as well.
5. Sleep Disturbances
People with reflux are more likely to have trouble sleeping due to symptoms such as heartburn, coughing, and discomfort. In turn, not getting enough restful sleep can aggravate reflux symptoms further. If you’ve been having trouble sleeping, especially if it’s accompanied by reflux symptoms, you should talk to your doctor about possible treatments.
In conclusion, there are several surprising symptoms of reflux that you shouldn’t ignore. If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s important to talk to your doctor about whether reflux could be the underlying cause. With proper treatment, you can manage reflux and prevent further complications.
