Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) and Throat Pain
Throat pain can be a symptom of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). GERD occurs when stomach contents, including stomach acid, flow back up into the esophagus. This can irritate the lining of the esophagus and cause various symptoms, including throat pain.
A person may recognize throat pain as a symptom of GERD if they experience a burning sensation in their throat, frequent burping, or hoarseness. Throat pain may also occur with other symptoms such as acid reflux, difficulty or pain when swallowing, regurgitation of food, bad breath, a recurring or chronic cough, or wheezing.
When experiencing throat pain as a symptom of GERD, a person may feel discomfort or a burning sensation in their throat. It may also feel like there is something stuck in their throat or like their throat is tight.
There are several actions and treatments that can help relieve throat pain caused by GERD.
- Making lifestyle changes such as avoiding foods that contribute to flare-ups can reduce GERD symptoms. For example, spicy foods, citrus fruits, chocolate, caffeine, and fatty or fried foods are known triggers for some people. Elevating the head of the bed while sleeping and avoiding lying down immediately after eating can also help.
- Over-the-counter antacids and acid reducers may provide temporary relief from throat pain. However, it is important to note that these medications only provide temporary relief and do not address the underlying cause of GERD. Therefore, if throat pain persists or becomes severe, it is recommended to consult with a doctor.
It is important to call a doctor or seek medical help for throat pain as a symptom of GERD in certain situations. If the throat pain occurs with severe symptoms such as difficulty breathing or tightness of the throat, seek immediate medical attention by calling 911 or going to an emergency room.
If a person frequently experiences symptoms like belly pain, nausea, or diarrhea after eating, it is recommended to see a primary care doctor or gastroenterologist. The doctor may then refer the individual to an allergist for further testing and evaluation.
In summary:
- Throat pain can be a symptom of GERD.
- It occurs when stomach contents flow back up into the esophagus.
- Recognizing throat pain involves experiencing a burning sensation in the throat, frequent burping, hoarseness, and other related symptoms.
- Throat pain feels uncomfortable and may include sensations like something stuck in the throat or tightness.
- Actions and treatments recommended for throat pain include lifestyle changes (e.g., avoiding trigger foods), elevating the head of the bed while sleeping, and over-the-counter antacids.
- Consultation with a doctor is advised if throat pain persists or becomes severe.
- Seek immediate medical attention if severe symptoms like difficulty breathing or tightness of the throat occur alongside throat pain.
- Seeing a doctor is also recommended if there are frequent symptoms like belly pain, nausea, or diarrhea after eating.
Medication dosing may be affected by many factors. Check with your health care professional about dosing for your individual situation. Side effects can occur. Check with your health care professional or read the information provided with your medication for side effect information.