Heartburn/GERD Health Center

Acid Reflux Symptoms

When Should I Call the Doctor With Acid Reflux Symptoms?

Be sure to call your doctor if you don't get lasting relief from medications or if you have heartburn more than two times a week for more than two weeks. Also call the doctor if you have any "alarm" acid reflux symptoms, such as these:

• Unexpected weight loss
• Blood in vomit
• Black, tarry, or maroon-colored stools
• Difficulty or pain with swallowing

Other acid reflux symptoms that should prompt a call to your doctor include:

• Asthma-like symptoms, such as wheezing or dry cough
• Hoarseness, especially in the morning
• Chronic sore throat
• Hiccups that don't let up
• Nausea that lasts for weeks or months

Sometimes, people confuse the symptoms of heart attack with symptoms of acid reflux disease. That's because pain in the chest can feel like heartburn. When in doubt, call your doctor.

Call 911 if you have any of these symptoms of heart attack:

• Chest pain, pressure, or fullness lasting more than a few minutes or that goes away and comes back
• Pain or discomfort in your neck, shoulder, or jaw
• Shortness of breath, with or without chest pain
• Dizziness, lightheadedness, or nausea
• Sweating along with chest pain