GERD symptoms and what they mean

Reflux happens when stomach contents move back into the food pipe. Burning behind the breastbone, a sour taste, or fluid returning to the mouth may follow meals, bending, or lying down. Some people instead notice hoarseness, repeated throat clearing, a cough, bad taste, or disrupted sleep. A [Chronic Cough](/conditions/chronic-cough/) and [Chest Tightness](/symptoms/chest-tightness/) have many possible causes, so these symptoms should not automatically be attributed to GERD.

Note when symptoms occur and what preceded them. Leave time between eating and lying down, choose portions that feel comfortable, and identify personal triggers rather than removing many foods at once. Limit smoking and alcohol, and ask a pharmacist about suitable short-term relief. If symptoms are frequent, troublesome, or affecting sleep, arrange a clinical review rather than repeatedly treating them without advice.

Seek medical advice for difficulty swallowing, food sticking, repeated vomiting, bleeding, ongoing hoarseness, or unexplained weight loss. Get emergency help for severe or new chest pain, especially with breathlessness, sweating, faintness, or pain spreading to the arm or jaw. A clinician may also review abdominal pain, cough, or night symptoms that do not settle.

Do my symptoms fit reflux, and what other causes should be considered? Should I try a medicine, and for how long? Do I need an examination because swallowing or sleep is affected? Could a [Hiatus Hernia](/conditions/hiatus-hernia/) be contributing?