10 Symptoms of GERD

7. Breathing Problems

Difficulty breathing is one of the more frightening symptoms of GERD and can lead to lasting and dangerous respiratory complications. Individuals with the condition may experience bronchospasms and aspiration as the acid makes its way back into the esophagus, leading to shortness of breath. People with asthma may find their symptoms worsened by reflux attacks. In fact, some doctors link GERD to adult-onset, treatment-resistant asthma. However, breathing problems are not a common sign of GERD and require medical evaluation to look for other causes.