Reflux disease, also known as GERD, is a chronic condition that can lead to potentially serious conditions if left unchecked. While everyone gets heartburn from time to time, most can be controlled through over the counter medications and diet modifications. When heartburn becomes frequent, at least two or three times per week, reflux disease may be diagnosed. At this point, your doctor may take additional measures to help you control your symptoms and reduce potential damage to the esophagus.
Reflux disease begins when a particular muscle in your digestive tract fails to perform properly. This muscle, known as the lower esophageal sphincter, is located at the base of the esophagus. The purpose of the lower esophageal sphincter is to close the esophagus off from the stomach once food passes through. This action keeps food and digestive acids in the stomach where they belong. With gastroesophageal reflux disease, the lower esophageal sphincter fails to close completely, allowing food, acids and sometimes bile, to creep back up into the esophagus. The result is a painful burning sensation and bitter, acidic taste in the mouth.
While doctors cannot predict who will get reflux disease and who won't, there are some risk factors that up your chances of getting diagnosed with this condition. People who are overweight or pregnant are more likely to be diagnosed with reflux disease. You are also at higher risk if you are a smoker or have a chronic condition like asthma or diabetes. While these risk factors don't necessarily mean you will be diagnosed with reflux disease at some point, they do raise the odds that you might end up with this chronic condition.
While heartburn on its own is rarely serious, reflux disease can become problematic if it is not effectively treated. When the lining of the esophagus is consistently exposed to harmful stomach acid, it can become damaged. Prolonged damage can lead to narrowing of the esophagus or open sores that can be very painful. In extreme cases, the damage can lead to Barrett's Esophagus, which is a precancerous condition that puts people at higher risk of esophageal cancer. If you are diagnosed with Barrett's Esophagus, you may need to go in for regular cancer screenings.
Reflux disease can be an uncomfortable condition, but there are effective treatments that keep painful symptoms at bay. Some can be purchased over the counter and others are available by a doctor's prescription. If you are experiencing heartburn two or more times a week, or if your over the counter medication is no longer effective on your symptoms, talk to your doctor.
