Heartburn is common enough that it’s easy to think of it as just something that happens to everyone. There is some truth to that, but it’s important to recognize that it’s also something that can evolve from an incident to a serious condition. Once heartburn and acid reflux become more of an ongoing problem, then you have to take it more seriously.
William C. Orr, PhD, a clinical professor of medicine and specialist in gastrointestinal disorders at the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, told Web MD, “When heartburn is not appropriately treated, acid reflux can cause erosion and ulcers in the lining of the esophagus,” he said. “It’s extremely painful and greatly affects the patient’s lifestyle.”
In other words, frequent acid reflux could lead to very serious health concerns, such as GERD or Barrett’s Esophagus. Here are some warning signs that you have more than just a “common” heartburn/acid reflux issue:
- The number of occurrences have increased over time
- You feel pain while swallowing
- It becomes more difficult to swallow
- You develop hoarseness in your voice
- You experience extreme cases of weight loss
- Your acid reflux/heartburn episodes cause vomiting
- You notice darker/blacker bowl movements
When these symptoms occur, you have to concern yourself with possible damage to the esophagus or the threat of esophageal cancer. It’s important to have a comprehensive knowledge of how acid reflux/heartburn can affect your daily life and health.
GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease) is when acid flows up from the stomach and hits the esophagus, causing its structure to weaken.
Barrett’s Esophagus can develop after the long-term effects of GERD have taken a toll. Eventually, the type of tissue that is generally associated with your intestines start forming on your esophagus. This condition increases the odds of cancer forming in your throat.
With the right medical attention, you can address the threats associated with GERD or Barrett’s Esophagus, and that is what we do every day at Houston Heartburn. Contact us today if you feel your heartburn/acid reflux has developed into more than just a random issue.