When to See a Doctor About Acid Reflux: Signs It’s More Than Heartburn

Occasional acid reflux is normal – most people will experience it eventually. However, when your condition becomes chronic or recurrent, it could suggest an underlying problem.

This article explores acid reflux and gastro-oesophageal reflux disease and their symptoms, when to see a doctor and what potential complications can occur.

What is acid reflux?

Acid reflux is when your stomach acid flows back up into your oesophagus. Reflux can lead to several unpleasant symptoms that can be challenging to manage. 

Some people find that their acid reflux is worse at night, when lying down or after eating foods that trigger it, such as spicy or fried meals.

Signs of acid reflux

The main signs of acid reflux are: 

  • Heartburn – a burning sensation in your chest
  • A sour taste in your mouth – caused by stomach acid moving into your throat and mouth

Other symptoms can include: 

  • A recurrent cough or hiccups
  • A hoarse voice
  • Unpleasant breath
  • Bloating and nausea

What is gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GORD)?

GORD is where stomach acid leaks into your oesophagus. It typically develops when the ring of muscle at the bottom of your oesophagus weakens, causing acid to flow backwards.

Symptoms of GORD

GORD can cause symptoms like: 

  • Heartburn
  • Acid reflux
  • Bloating and nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Pain or difficulty swallowing

What’s the difference between acid reflux and GORD?

Although both conditions can have similar symptoms, they are different. Acid reflux is a milder version of GORD and is not usually long-lasting. GORD can irritate the oesophagus’s lining and lead to serious complications. 

The underlying cause of GORD typically has to do with weakened parts of your oesophagus, whereas a trigger food or drink will commonly cause acid reflux – not a structural issue. 

When to see a doctor about acid reflux

Having acid reflux or heartburn now and again isn’t usually concerning. However, if your acid reflux becomes chronic (long-lasting), you must speak with your doctor. 

Other reasons you must see your doctor about acid reflux include: 

  • Finding it difficult to swallow or choking often
  • Persistent, worsening symptoms that do not improve with lifestyle changes or over-the-counter medication
  • You develop chest pain alongside your symptoms
  • You regurgitate (bring up) food or drink, not just stomach acid
  • You’ve lost weight unintentionally without explanation

Talking to your doctor if you’re worried about your acid reflux symptoms is vital. They can investigate your symptoms and provide a personalised treatment plan. 

Your doctor may perform diagnostic tests like an endoscopy (where they insert a flexible tube with a camera into your mouth and down your throat). The endoscope helps your doctor to see your oesophagus and check for any muscle weakening. 

Doctors can use the test to diagnose GORD and provide treatment that minimises your symptoms and, in some cases, clears them up. 

Complications of chronic acid reflux and GORD

Untreated chronic acid reflux and GORD can lead to possible complications. 

Potential complications can include: 

  • Oesophagitis – where the lining of your oesophagus becomes inflamed due to stomach acid irritating it. 
  • Barrett’s oesophagus – a condition where some of the cells in your oesophagus begin to grow abnormally. It also increases your risk of developing oesophageal cancer. However, this isn’t common.
  • Increased risk of oesophageal cancer – you may have an increased risk of developing oesophageal cancer if you have GORD, chronic acid reflux or Barrett’s oesophagus. However, many types of oesophageal cancer are linked to lifestyle choices like drinking excessive amounts of alcohol and smoking. 

You can significantly reduce these complications with early intervention and treatment and find relief from your symptoms.

Find acid reflux and GORD support with Mr Achal Khanna

Knowing when to ask for medical support and advice for your acid reflux symptoms is essential. Mr Achal Khanna is a private upper gastrointestinal surgeon in Milton Keynes who can effectively treat acid reflux and GORD using the latest techniques. 
Through a careful, thorough diagnosis, he’ll provide you with a tailored treatment plan that meets your exact needs. Contact our dedicated team to find the acid reflux relief you need.