Differential Diagnosis for Acid Reflux with Excess Saliva
- Single most likely diagnosis:
- Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) - This is the most likely diagnosis because acid reflux is a hallmark symptom of GERD, and excess saliva can be a response to the irritation caused by stomach acid in the esophagus.
- Other Likely diagnoses:
- Dyspepsia - This condition, also known as indigestion, can cause symptoms similar to acid reflux and may also lead to increased saliva production as the body tries to neutralize the acid.
- Esophagitis - Inflammation of the esophagus, which can be caused by acid reflux, may lead to symptoms including excess saliva production.
- Hiatal hernia - A condition where part of the stomach pushes up into the chest, which can cause acid reflux and potentially lead to increased saliva production.
- Do Not Miss diagnoses:
- Esophageal cancer - Although rare, it's crucial not to miss this diagnosis. Symptoms can include difficulty swallowing, which might initially present with excess saliva, and acid reflux.
- Achalasia - A rare swallowing disorder that can cause regurgitation of food and liquids, potentially leading to acid reflux symptoms and increased saliva.
- Rare diagnoses:
- Rumination syndrome - A condition where food is regurgitated and then chewed again, which can lead to symptoms of acid reflux and potentially excess saliva.
- Eosinophilic esophagitis - An inflammatory condition of the esophagus that can cause difficulty swallowing, food impaction, and potentially symptoms of acid reflux and excess saliva production.