GERD Symptoms

GERD SymptomsCommon GERD symptoms include the following:

• Heartburn
• Regurgitation
• Difficulty swallowing

Less common GERD symptoms may include the following:

• Chest pain
• Sour taste in mouth
• Coughing, laryngitis
• Asthma
• Voice changes
• Aspiration
• Even pneumonia

Diagnosis

The diagnosis of GERD is usually made based on clinical signs and symptoms. Lab tests (measuring the acid levels in the esophagus or the strength of muscle contractions in the esophagus) are rarely used except in special circumstances.

Esophagogastroduodenoscopy (looking inside the esophagus and stomach with a camera) may be employed to look for esophageal inflammation and damage.