Why acid reflux is more than just heartburn
The so-called gastroesophageal reflux disease is one of the most common indigestion of the world. The most common symptom is constant heartburn. But heartburn also occurs without the presence of acid reflux disease. A specialist explains how Reflux differs from heartburn and why this digestive disorder should be treated consistently.
Dr. James East is Gastroenterologist at the prestigious Mayo Clinic Healthcare in London. In a recent article, the expert on digestive disorders explains how ordinary heartburn of the gastroesophageal reflux disease which can lead to serious complications if left untreated for a long time.
Heartburn is the main symptom of reflux disease
Heartburn is a common one Symptomwhich occurs when Stomach acid flows back into the esophagus. This reflux of stomach acid can cause a burning sensation in the chest and a sour taste in the mouth.
“The stomach is well designed to deal with highly acidic conditions, but the esophagus is not”, the gastroenterologist points out. Common causes of heartburn are:
- overeating,
- the consumption of certain foods with a high fat content or hot spices,
- drinking too much coffee or alcohol,
- taking certain medications
- the presence of certain disease such as reflux.
Typical symptoms of reflux disease
Many people occasionally experience heartburn following a heavy meal. However, anyone who is constantly afflicted by the symptom should be examined by a doctor. Reflux disease might be present. This must be treated consistently to prevent possible dangerous consequences.
how Dr. East reported, in the presence of reflux disease, the lining of the esophagus by acid and chemical substances from the stomach are severely damaged. In addition to heartburn, other typical symptoms often occur, such as
- Lump in throat,
- Difficulties swallowing,
- chest pain,
- Cough,
- Asthma-like breathing difficulties.
Complication of untreated reflux disease
“Complications of reflux disease include esophagitis, an inflammation of the lower part of the esophagus”, explains Dr. East. If such inflammation persist over a longer period of time Scars and narrowings in the esophagus the image.
In some people, reflux disease can trigger a change in the cells that line the lower esophagus, resulting in what is called a Barrett’s esophagus can lead. This is a disease in which Valve between esophagus and stomach failedwhich causes stomach acid to flow back up into the esophagus.
Who has an increased risk of Barrett’s esophagus
Barrett’s esophagus increases the risk of esophageal cancer to fall ill, which is why those affected should be checked regularly for precancerous stages, recommends Dr. East. an elevated one Risk for Barrett’s esophagus have according to the specialist:
- men who are over 50 years old,
- People with a family history of Barrett’s esophagus or esophageal cancer
- smokers,
- People who are overweight, especially with accumulations of fat in the abdomen,
- Affected people who have had reflux disease for more than five years.
“If you have three of these risk factors, you should have a screening endoscopy for Barrett’s esophagus”, advises Dr. East. According to him, develop around 10 to 15 percent of people with reflux disease also have Barrett’s esophagus. About one person in 200 who has Barrett’s esophagus will develop it Adenocarcinoma in the esophagus.
Reflux is easily treatable
According to Dr. East there are good and innovative treatment options for reflux disease. “But first you should avoid triggers like coffee, alcohol and smoking”emphasizes the specialist.
You can find out more regarding this in the article “Reflux – causes, symptoms, treatment“. (vb)
Author and source information
This text corresponds to the requirements of medical specialist literature, medical guidelines and current studies and has been checked by medical professionals.
Author:
Graduate editor (FH) Volker Blasek
Sources:
- Mayo Clinic: Healthcare expert explains why reflux disease isn’t `just’ heartburn (veröffentlicht: 12.01.2023), newsnetwork.mayoclinic.org
- Mayo Clinic: Gastroesophageal reflux disease (Abruf: 21.01.2023), mayoclinic.org
Important NOTE:
This article contains general advice only and should not be used for self-diagnosis or treatment. He can not substitute a visit at the doctor.
