What are the symptoms of acid reflux?

Parasitic infections such as worms in the digestive tract are not commonly seen in Singapore with the current high standard of living. Most of the cases seen are either imported or contracted during overseas trips. Due to the acidic environment in the stomach, worms, when present, are mostly present in the small and large intestines. The clinical presentation can be non-specific including bloating, abdominal cramps, diarrhoea, blood-stained stools, and itchiness at the anus.

Pain and burning sensation are recognized as symptoms of acid reflux, and will hence improve with PPI treatment. However, bloating is not a symptom of acid reflux. Hence, PPI treatment will not have any effect on it. The commonest causes of bloating we see locally in our clinics are: food intolerance, bacterial overgrowth and constipation. Food intolerance alone accounts for over 50% of bloating. Certainly, there are other causes of bloating, including more serious causes, but these are uncommon.