Hi.. Welcome to HEALTHCARE MAGIC.. As per your complain it is very much correct that acid reflux can cause swollen taste buds at the back of the tongue. There are Circumvallate papillae present at the back one third of tongue and it is arranged in a typical V shaped pattern and when there is acid reflux the acid can cause chemical injury to the papillae and cause inflammation and swelling of the taste buds.. Metallic taste in mouth is also due to the taste of acid.. It is not a sign of any serious illness and you need not to worry about it.. You can take antacid like Milk of magnesia or Calcium carbonate before meals and take small frequent meals and drink plenty of water.. Avoid spicy and acidic foods.. For swollen papillae do soda bicarb gargles and suck ice pops.. If by doing so the acid reflux get s relieved the papillae will also reduce in size. In case if it does not improve consult a Gastroenterologist and get evaluated and he can advise you to get an Endoscopy done if required.. For acid reflux he can advise you proton pump inhibitors like Omeprazole or Pantoprazole.. Loosing weight and doing moderate exercises can also relieve.. Hope this information helps.. Thanks and regards.. Dr.Honey Nandwani Arora.