What are the symptoms of GERD?

Gastroesophageal reflux disease is one of the most common problems among Americans, in fact some of us may have it and not even realize it. Here are a few of the symptoms:

*Heartburn (the most familiar symptom)
*Eroded dental enamel
*Voice problems such as hoarseness or laryngitis
*Difficulty in swallowing
*A repeated feeling of the need to clear the throat
*Chronic coughing
*Shortness of breath
*Postnasal drip
*Esophageal bleeding
*Ulceration or stricture (narrowing) of esophagus
*Pneumonitis (inflammation of the lungs)
*Chest pain
*Asthma
*Barret's esophagus (a precancerous condition)
*Esophageal cancer

If you find yourself with these symptoms, consult your doctor.