Gastrointestinal Issues
11. Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
GERD, also called acid reflux, is when acid from the stomach contents comes up into the esophagus. This happens because the sphincter between the esophagus and stomach does not close tightly after food passes. “[The acidic contents] can irritate the throat and sometimes even be inhaled into the lungs,” says Dr. Hui. “This can cause respiratory symptoms like airway tightening, which can lead to wheezing.”