Based on a recent study, it was discovered that adults from age 25 -74 in one way or another suffers from these symptoms: belching, heartburn, regurgitation, stomach upset and many more. But the percentage of reported occurrences is rather low compared to the data collected from the study. This comparison proves that people are not taking this issue of Acid reflux as a major health problem. Neglecting the symptoms of acid reflux can lead to more serious complications if not treated correctly. Below are listed some of the major complications that may arise as a result of acid reflux.
You are likely to be suffering from Acid Reflux if you are taking an antacid often, possibly after certain meals, or even on a daily basis. The first symptom that shows in patients with such an ailment is heartburn: a stinging, painful, and burning sensation around the lower or middle chest. Have you been ignoring this pain or suppressing it with an antacid? If your answer happens to be yes, then you may need a consultation and an Endoscopy evaluation to evaluate these symptoms as this may indicate a more serious underlying issue.
- Esophageal stricture – This is a severe complication that can arise as a result of Acid reflux. Esophageal strictures are injuries caused on the lower esophagus as a result of the irritation from acid that arises from the stomach. This injury forms scars from continuous irritation over time. http://www.healthline.com/health/esophageal-stricture-benign Patients suffering from this chronic disease often complain of difficulty with food passing through the lower portion of the esophagus. Esophageal strictures eventually can lead to more severe swallowing difficulties or complete obstructions. This is a chronic disease that might even require major treatments. By consulting with a gastroenterologist for management of acid reflux when symptoms first arise, this can likely be prevented.
- Barrett’s esophagus – The majority of people that suffer from acid reflux don’t initially consider the importance of Gastroscopy (EGD) to help evaluate their primary problem: acid reflux. Instead, they consider acid reflux as a minor ailment that will go away naturally, but unfortunately, it is not. The only way to prevent Barrett’s esophagus, which is the primitive stage of esophageal cancer, is to visit a gastroenterologist doctor to help conduct an endoscopy test to evaluate for presence/extent of reflux esophagitis and screen for Barrett’s esophagus. In the case of this Barrett’s esophagus, the lining of the gut is severely damage due to the prolonged exposure to acid reflux. http://https://www.webmd.com/heartburn-gerd/guide/barretts-esophagus-symptoms-causes-and-treatments In turn, the body system naturally finds a way to replace the esophageal tissues with that which looks like intestinal tissues. By treating acid reflux at an early stage, this can be prevented.
- Esophageal cancer – This is actually the end result of it all. The only way to prevent this from happening is with the help of early diagnosis by first conducting an Endoscopy test to know exactly what the acid reflux has caused. Esophageal cancer is unfortunately increasing at a fast rate, so work with your local Gastroenterologist to help find a solution to your acid reflux in its early stages.
Luckily, it is not too late to get back on track. All you have to do to prevent this acid reflux from becoming a major problem is to consult a Gastroenterologist. Right here at Greater Orlando, we have a great team of Gastroenterology doctors and providers well versed in this area. We are ready to help you put a stop to your acid reflux problems and prevent future complications from happening. You can check out our website to learn more https://greaterorlandogi.com