GERD can be a problem if it's not treated because, over time, the reflux of stomach acid damages the tissue lining the esophagus, causing inflammation and pain. In adults, long-lasting, untreated GERD can lead to permanent damage of the esophagus.
“Untreated acid reflux can result in chronic damage or scarring in the esophagus,” explains Dr. Lynch. “Scarring in the esophagus can cause strictures, which become more difficult to treat as further acid damage occurs.” Delay in properly managing acid reflux may lead to a condition call Barrett's esophagus.
The duration of GERD symptoms can vary from person to person. In some cases, symptoms may occasionally last a few hours. In other cases, symptoms may be more frequent and persist for several days or weeks.
Over time, chronic inflammation in your esophagus can cause: Inflammation of the tissue in the esophagus (esophagitis). Stomach acid can break down tissue in the esophagus, causing inflammation, bleeding, and sometimes an open sore (ulcer). Esophagitis can cause pain and make swallowing difficult.
When should I see a doctor for heartburn? If you experience frequent (more than two times per week) or severe heartburn, or if your heartburn is accompanied by other symptoms such as chest pain or difficulty breathing, you should seek medical attention.
Stage 4: Reflux-induced Precancerous Lesions or Esophageal Cancer. Stage 4 GERD represents the most serious consequence of long-term reflux, and approximately 10% of people who have GERD will progress to this stage if their reflux remains uncontrolled over time.
Water. In general, drinking water can help balance the pH of a particularly acidic meal, which may help to lower the risk of acid reflux. Studies show that drinking mineral water with a high hydrogen carbonate content can help to alleviate the frequency and severity of acid reflux.
If the pain is not relieved shortly after taking antacids, or is accompanied by these symptoms, seek emergency medical care: Squeezing/tightening in the chest. Feeling out of breath. Pain, aching or discomfort radiating from the chest to the arms, back or neck.
The most common cause is food that's acidic or high in fat—like citrus fruits, tomatoes, onions, chocolate, coffee, cheese, and peppermint. Spicy foods or large meals can also be the root of distress. Other sources of heartburn include aspirin or ibuprofen, as well as some sedatives and blood pressure medications.
Symptoms. Sudden injuries of the esophagus usually cause pain, often felt as sharp pain under the breastbone. They may also cause bleeding, and blood may appear in vomit or stool. Fainting may occur due to this pain, especially if the esophagus ruptures.
People who have GERD are more likely than others to end up with heart disease, characterized by abnormal heartbeats, plaque buildup in the heart arteries or reduced blood flow to the heart.
The fat in milk can aggravate acid reflux. But nonfat milk can act as a temporary buffer between the stomach lining and acidic stomach contents and provide immediate relief of heartburn symptoms."
Gaviscon can be used to treat heartburn (acid reflux) and indigestion. The medicine works by forming a protective layer that floats on top of the contents of your stomach. This stops stomach acid escaping up into your food pipe.
The goal of surgery for reflux disease is to strengthen the anti-reflux barrier. During a procedure known as a Nissen fundoplication, your surgeon wraps the upper part of your stomach around the lower esophagus. This enhances the anti-reflux barrier and can provide permanent relief from reflux.
Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs).
PPIs are better at treating GERD symptoms than H2 blockers, and they can heal the esophageal lining in most people with GERD. You can buy PPIs over the counter, or your doctor can prescribe one. Doctors may prescribe PPIs for long-term GERD treatment.
GERD can cause chest pain that mimics a heart attack. Described as a squeezing pressure behind the breast bone, GERD-related chest pain can last for hours. And like a heart attack, it can also radiate down your arm to your back.
Several studies found an association between drinking carbonated beverages and an increased risk of GERD, according to a 2021 review . The National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK) also recommends that people avoid carbonated drinks to reduce acid reflux and GERD.
People without a history of heartburn can suddenly develop heartburn as a result of eating certain foods, some eating patterns, drinking, and smoking. Stress, anxiety, certain medications, and some medical conditions can also cause it.
Stage 4 of GERD is when noticeable changes to the affected tissues are most likely to occur due to years of repeated damage. This is the stage when severe conditions like dysplasia and Barrett's esophagus are most like to form. In some cases, esophageal cancer may form at this stage.
The feeling of acid reflux is heartburn: a mild burning sensation in the mid-chest, often occurring after meals or when lying down. Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a more serious form of acid reflux. In GERD, the backflow of stomach acid occurs chronically and causes damage to the body over time.