Acid Reflux Health Center

Symptoms of acid reflux are generally mild, but more severe symptoms are possible and could suggest the advancement of the condition to GERD, a more serious form of the condition.

When acid reflux occurs, food or fluid can be tasted in the back of the mouth as the stomach contents and acid rises. When refluxed stomach acid touches the lining of the esophagus, it may cause a burning sensation in the chest or throat, which is called heartburn or indigestion.

Persistent reflux occurring more than twice in a weeklong period is a sign of GERD. People with GERD may also have symptoms such as dry cough and asthma-like symptoms.

Acid reflux is common in babies and usually does not produce symptoms. However, some babies do show symptoms, including spitting up, vomiting, coughing, irritability, poor feeding and possibly blood in the stools. More serious symptoms are possible in infants and can include poor growth due to inability to hold down food, refusing to feed due to pain, blood loss from acid burning the esophagus and breathing problems. These symptoms could indicate a disorder other than acid reflux. See a doctor or health care professional to determine if your child has acid reflux or a different condition.