Acid reflux (GERD) commonly presents with heartburn (a burning sensation behind the breastbone), sour or bitter regurgitation, increased belching, post-meal fullness, and throat burning. Some people have atypical symptoms instead of classic heartburn, such as chronic cough, hoarseness, frequent throat clearing, or a “lump in the throat” sensation. Symptoms that worsen after large meals, when bending forward, lying down, or at night are suggestive. Rather than relying on guesswork, assess frequency (how many days per week), whether sleep is disrupted, and whether alarm signs exist (difficulty swallowing, unintentional weight loss, bleeding). If symptoms are frequent or affect quality of life, a clinician can confirm the likely diagnosis and define the most appropriate stepwise management plan.