What causes sore throat, fever, and acid reflux?

Throat burning and acid reflux may be caused by conditions such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), esophagitis, or esophageal ulcers. It is recommended to visit a hospital for evaluation to determine the specific underlying cause of these symptoms.

1. Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)

Poor eating habits, frequent smoking, alcohol consumption, and other factors can lead to relaxation of the lower esophageal sphincter, allowing stomach acid and gastric fluids to flow back into the esophagus—the tube connecting the throat and stomach—resulting in GERD. This condition can cause symptoms such as throat burning, acid reflux, and upper abdominal pain.

2. Esophagitis

When the protective barrier of the esophageal mucosa weakens, stomach contents may reflux into the esophagus, causing damage to the esophageal lining and leading to esophagitis. This inflammation can result in discomfort including throat burning, acid reflux, chest pain, and difficulty swallowing.

3. Esophageal Ulcer

Mechanical injury, foreign body irritation, or repeated episodes of gastroesophageal reflux may damage the surface tissue of the esophageal mucosa, leading to ulceration. This can progressively destroy the mucosal layer, submucosal layer, and even the muscular layer of the esophagus, forming an esophageal ulcer and triggering inflammatory responses. Patients may experience symptoms such as throat burning, acid reflux, difficulty swallowing, nausea, and vomiting.