• The most common presenting feature is dysphagia (Inability to swallow food). This affects solids more than soft food or liquids.
• Regurgitation (Food or water coming back in throat or mouth) may occur in 80-90% and some patients learn to induce it to relieve pain.
• Chest pain occurs in 25-50%. It occurs after eating. It is more prevalent in early disease and may mimic pain of an heart attack.
• Heartburn is common feature because food retained in the esophagus (foodpipe) causes inflammation of esophagus
• Loss of weight may occur and cancer of esophagus should be ruled out.
• Nocturnal cough and even inhalation of refluxed contents is a feature of later disease. This may lead to pneumonia as well.