Ask An Expert: Many Symptoms of GERD

Content provided by the Faculty of the Harvard Medical School

Ask An Expert: Many Symptoms of GERD

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Question:

Can GERD also cause gas, bloating, cramps and diarrhea?

Answer:

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) can cause a large variety of symptoms, including nausea, heartburn (burning pain behind the sternum), squeezing chest pain, hoarseness, sore throat, regurgitation of food, pain in the upper abdomen, wheezing, excessive saliva production, swallowing difficulty and coughing. It is sometimes associated with burping (burping makes you more likely to have reflux).

Aside from its association with burping, GERD isn't directly associated with any other gas-related symptoms, such as bloating, passing gas (flatulence) or cramps. Diarrhea, likewise, is not a common symptom of GERD. Even though these symptoms aren't caused by GERD, they can be a side effect of GERD treatment. Strong antacid medicines such as omeprazole (Prilosec) and other drugs in its group may cause these lower digestive symptoms.

Mary Pickett, M.D., is a lecturer for Harvard Medical School and an assistant professor of medicine at Oregon Health & Science University in Portland, OR. At OHSU, she practices general internal medicine and teaches medical residents and students.

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Last updated:	April 11, 2007

Medical content reviewed by the Faculty of the Harvard Medical School. Harvard Health Publications, Copyright © 2007 by President and Fellows of Harvard College. All rights reserved. Used with permission of StayWell.

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