Plum pit qi and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) can initially be distinguished by their symptoms. For example, plum pit qi primarily presents with a sensation of a foreign object in the throat, which cannot be coughed up nor swallowed down. On the other hand, GERD may lead to vomiting, gastrointestinal indigestion, and it is likely to cause symptoms such as throat pain. Therefore, distinguishing between the two based on their symptoms can be very effective. Regardless of whether it is plum pit qi or GERD, it is crucial to seek timely treatment to prevent the condition from worsening and becoming more difficult to cure.