Signs of gastric reflux Common reflux and heartburn are common digestive conditions that increase with age. Gastric reflux, or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), is characterized by dysfunction of the lower esophageal sphincter, which causes gastroduodenal contents to reflux into the esophagus causing esophageal and extraesophageal symptoms, as well as complications related to the manifestations. 1. Esophageal symptoms, the most common and typical ones are reflux and heartburn, which are mostly aggravated when the abdominal pressure increases such as bending over one hour after meal, and in severe cases, there is a stabbing pain at the back of the sternum, which can radiate to the precordial area and the back, and is accompanied by difficulty in swallowing. 2. Extra-esophageal symptoms, due to irritation and damage to tissues outside the esophagus after food reflux, pharyngolaryngitis and dental erosion, such as foreign body sensation in the throat. 3. Complications, mostly occurring in people with a long course of the disease, such as upper gastrointestinal bleeding caused by erosion of the esophageal mucosa, manifested by vomiting and black stool. Those who have the above symptoms are recommended to visit the gastroenterology department for diagnosis and treatment after evaluation by the doctor.