4 Serious Conditions That Patients With GERD Are More Susceptible To Getting

Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) is a common digestive issue where stomach acid backs up into the esophagus, causing a variety of symptoms and complications. People who live with chronic GERD are more susceptible to developing other medical conditions as well.

The Dangers of Untreated GERD

Over time if left untreated, GERD can cause complications and even more serious life-threatening illnesses. Some of the most common conditions that patients with GERD are more susceptible to developing are: Barrett’s esophagus, esophageal cancer, esophageal ulcers, and esophageal stricture.

What is Barrett’s Esophagus?

Barrett’s esophagus is when GERD damages the esophagus causing it to become thicker and inflamed. When the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) valve that allows food to pass into the stomach fails, and acid travels back up into the esophagus, it can cause gastroesophageal reflux disease. In time this can lead to Barrett’s esophagus. People with Barrett’s esophagus have a higher risk of developing esophageal cancer.

The symptoms of Barrett’s esophagus include:

• Regurgitation of food.

• Frequent heartburn.

• Chest pain.

• Difficulty swallowing food.

What is Esophageal Cancer?

The relationship between GERD and esophageal cancer begins with the severity of symptoms and the damage it has caused. Long-term GERD can lead to esophageal cancer, which may occur anywhere along the lining of the esophagus. Surprisingly, esophageal cancer is number 6 on the list of most common causes of death worldwide. This type of cancer affects men more often than women. 

Some symptoms of esophageal cancer are:

• Unexplained weight loss.

• Chronic coughing or hoarseness.

• Chest pain, burning, and pressure.

• Difficulty swallowing.

• Heartburn or frequent indigestion.

Esophageal Ulcers

Another common condition related to GERD is esophageal ulcers or “peptic” ulcers. Peptic ulcers are sores found along the digestive tract in the esophagus. They occur when acid wears away the mucus that protects the lining of the gastrointestinal tract. Some symptoms of this condition are:

• Abdominal pain.

• Nausea.

• Sore throat.

• Loss of appetite.

• Difficulty swallowing.

• Heartburn.

• Sour taste in the mouth.

• Weight loss.

• Vomiting.

• Shortness of breath.

Esophageal Stricture

Over time and repeated damage caused by GERD, patients can develop esophageal stricture, which is a narrowing of the esophagus. It is often benign, meaning non-cancerous. The leading cause is inflammation due to acid or scar tissue build-up from the effects of GERD. Benign esophageal stricture makes it difficult to swallow (presenting the danger of choking) and makes eating and drinking challenging. Some symptoms that indicate this condition are:

• Heartburn.

• Frequent burping or hiccups.

• The sensation that something is stuck in your chest after eating.

• Unexplained weight loss.

• Regurgitation of food or liquids.

• Difficulty swallowing food or beverages.

GERD Treatment in Tampa

GERD can put patients at risk for developing a number of serious conditions, but the good news is that GERD is very treatable. If you live in the Tampa area and are looking for treatment solutions to eliminate your GERD for good, set up a time to talk to a reflux doctor about your options.