What Are the Symptoms of GERD?

Is your acid reflux actually gastroesophageal reflux disease?

Occasional bouts of acid reflux may simply mean that you’re dealing with heartburn; however, more recurring episodes could be a sign of a condition known as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). While GERD symptoms may be more obvious for some, sometimes symptoms may be so subtle that they can easily be overlooked. It’s important to recognize some of the obvious and not-so-obvious symptoms of GERD so you know when to turn to our Lehighton, PA, gastroenterologists Dr. Ahmed Hasan, Dr. Andrew Schwartz and Dr. Mahreema Jawairia for an evaluation.

The most common GERD symptoms include,

  • Heartburn
  • Regurgitation
  • Belching
  • Gas and bloating
  • Bad breath
  • A sore taste in the mouth

Of course, sometimes symptoms of GERD are a little less obvious. Some of the less common symptoms of GERD include,

  • Painful swallowing or trouble swallowing
  • Increased salivary production
  • Chest discomfort
  • Hoarseness
  • Laryngitis
  • Burning in the throat, often at night
  • Chronic dry, sore throat
  • Persistent dry cough
  • Acidic taste in the mouth
  • Sleep difficulties
  • Gum inflammation

When should I see a gastroenterologist? 

While it’s normal for heartburn or acid reflux to occur every once in a while, if you are dealing with this problem two or more times a week, this is certainly not normal and warrants turning to our Lehighton, PA, gastroenterologists to find out if you could be dealing with GERD.

Does GERD require treatment? 

While we know that having to schedule an appointment with a doctor is probably the last thing you had planned, it’s important that you don’t ignore these symptoms. GERD will not go away on its own and can lead to more serious gastrointestinal complications including esophageal cancer.

The good news is that GERD symptoms can be managed through the proper lifestyle and medications. Our gastroenterologists will prescribe any necessary medication needed to control acid production in the stomach, while also providing you with lifestyle and dietary changes that should be made to improve symptoms.

If you are dealing with symptoms of GERD, it’s important that you turn to our Lehighton, PA, gastroenterologists as soon as possible to determine the best treatment option for you. To schedule an appointment, simply call Lehigh Gastroenterology Associates at (610) 379-0443.

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Lehigh Gastroenterology Associates

Monday - Thursday:

8:30 am - 4:30 pm

Friday:

8:30 am - 1:30 pm

Saturday, Sunday:

Closed

Northwestern Medical Center

Monday, Wednesday - Sunday:

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Tuesday:

Every Other Month

12:00 pm - 4:30 pm

Allentown Medical Center

Monday - Thursday, Saturday, Sunday:

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Friday:

First Friday of Every Other Month

10:00 am - 12:00 am

Palmerton Medical Center

Monday, Wednesday - Sunday:

Closed

Tuesday:

10:00 am - 12:00 pm

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What Our Patients Say About Us

  • "Dr. Schwartz is awesome. He takes time to really get to the bottom of your issues and he really cares."
    Cheryl B.