Acid reflux happens when stomach contents move backward into the esophagus—the tube connecting your stomach to your throat. This can lead to symptoms like heartburn, persistent cough, and nausea. Silent acid reflux may cause sore throat and hoarseness, while severe cases can result in bleeding or difficulty swallowing.

Symptoms usually worsen at night when lying down. While occasional acid reflux isn’t usually a concern, experiencing it two or more times a week may indicate gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).

1. Heartburn
Heartburn is the most recognized symptom of acid reflux. It feels like a burning sensation rising from your chest (behind the breastbone) to your throat. It often happens after large meals or eating trigger foods like spicy dishes, chocolate, or alcohol.

If the chest pain is sharp or crushing, seek medical attention immediately to rule out more serious conditions.

2. Nausea
You might notice a sour taste in your mouth, often accompanied by burping and a sensation of fullness. This irritation from stomach acid can cause nausea and, in some cases, vomiting. Nausea may appear on its own or with bloating and belching.

3. Regurgitation
Regurgitation occurs when food, bile, or stomach acid rises into your throat or mouth. It can create a bitter or sour taste and a burning feeling in the back of your throat. Frequent regurgitation is a key sign of GERD.

4. Persistent Cough
Chronic coughing can result from acid irritating the throat and vocal cords. This symptom often occurs without other signs like heartburn, making it harder to link directly to reflux. A persistent, unexplained cough is frequently associated with GERD.

5. Hoarse Voice
Stomach acid that reaches your voice box (larynx) can lead to hoarseness, especially in the morning. It might also cause discomfort while speaking, along with a sore or scratchy throat.

6. Difficulty Swallowing
Acid reflux may lead to inflammation or damage in the esophagus, affecting its ability to move food properly. This can cause a sensation of food being stuck or pain when swallowing, a condition known as dysphagia—common in chronic GERD.

7. Frequent Asthma-Like Symptoms
Though the exact link isn't fully understood, acid reflux can trigger bronchospasms (tightening of airway muscles), worsening asthma symptoms like wheezing, coughing, or shortness of breath. If your asthma worsens after eating or lying down, acid reflux may be a factor.

Symptoms in Infants

Infants often experience reflux, shown by spitting up after feeding. Unlike vomiting, this isn’t usually painful or harmful. However, if it happens frequently, it may be GERD. Symptoms in infants may include:

  • Coughing or wheezing

  • Crying or irritability after eating

  • Difficulty gaining weight

  • Refusing to eat

  • Spitting up in toddlers or children over age 1

Symptoms of Chronic Acid Reflux (GERD)

If acid reflux occurs more than twice per week, it may be GERD. Symptoms include:

  • Hoarseness

  • Persistent cough or wheezing

  • Sensation of food stuck in the chest

  • Heartburn

  • Hiccups

  • Nausea

  • Regurgitation

  • Sore throat

  • Difficulty or painful swallowing

When To See a Doctor

Occasional reflux is usually manageable with diet changes and antacids. However, if symptoms happen multiple times per week, consult a healthcare provider to check for GERD or rule out more serious issues.

Seek immediate medical help if you have:

  • Blood in vomit or stool

  • Chest pain

  • Trouble breathing

  • Unexplained weight loss

  • Difficulty swallowing

Questions to Ask Your Provider

  • What medications can help with my reflux?

  • Is my condition likely to get worse?

  • How long should symptoms last?

  • What foods should I avoid or include?

Quick Summary

A bout of acid reflux after a heavy meal is usually harmless. But if symptoms like heartburn, regurgitation, or chronic coughing persist, it may be a sign of GERD. Early diagnosis and lifestyle changes can greatly improve your comfort and prevent complications.