4 Surprising Signs You Have Acid Reflux

If you’ve experienced a sour taste in your mouth, lots of gas, heartburn or feeling like you just threw up a little in your mouth, you may have attributed it to acid reflux or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).

And that’s a fair guess.

GERD, a more chronic condition that can result from acid reflux happening repeatedly over time , is quite common: Data shows 783.95 million people around the globe had GERD in 2019 .

But despite how many of us have it — and how well we know some of its symptoms — acid reflux has some side effects that are lesser known, too, according to gastroenterologists. Here’s what else to look for:

1. Ear pressure

Fullness in the ears may be more likely after you’ve been lying down, and here’s why: “Reflux material from the esophagus pools in the uppermost part of the throat where tubes connect the nasopharynx with each ear,” said Dr. Mark Tanchel , a board-certified gastroenterologist and partner at Gastroenterology Associates of New Jersey. “Reflux-induced inflammation increases pressure in these tubes, which can result in a feeling of fullness or blockage in the ears.”

He added ear pain, ringing in the ears and hearing loss are other related symptoms.

2. Difficulty breathing

Similarly, acid can get into and mess with your airways, too. “The proximity of the esophagus and respiratory system is the reason acid reflux can sometimes cause difficulty breathing,” said Dr. Ali A. Khan , a board-certified gastroenterologist with Gastro Health in Fairfax, Virginia.

He explained acid can cause infection or inflammation, which results in a shortness of breath.

Another factor to note: Acid reflux is prevalent in folks who have asthma, according to Khan. They may experience a chronic cough, chest