5. Sore throat
Sometimes, acid reflux in GERD can be confused with upper respiratory infections because it causes similar symptoms. You can get a sore throat after an episode of GERD. This is because the epithelium in your esophagus, pharynx, and larynx are not prepared to have stomach acid around, and they undergo a chemical burn. Inflammation ensues, and the tissue becomes tender and painful. A sore throat can sometimes be severe, and it is usually accompanied by hoarseness.
In the long term, if you stay with this problem and do not receive treatment, you can have severe disease complications. One of the most feared complications is Barrett’s esophagus. The esophagus lining tries to change its configuration to defend from the constant insult. In doing so, it becomes susceptible to developing esophageal cancer.