Can acid reflux cause health complications?

You've likely experienced heartburn at some point in your life. While heartburn is a common symptom, frequent acid reflux is not as normal as you think. Most people experience mild reflux from time to time. The risk of complications is generally low when the reflux is minor. In contrast, frequent acid reflux can be a sign of a condition known as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Although GERD itself isn’t a life-threatening condition, it can lead to more serious health issues and complications if it’s left untreated.

Here are a few complications that could arise due to frequent acid reflux and GERD. Many of these complications are related to each other and can be avoided with timely intervention.

1. Esophagitis

This refers to inflammation of the esophagus, and it is one of the common complications of acid reflux. When it's severe, it can cause narrowing of the esophagus. This may make it hard to swallow.

Chronic, untreated esophagitis may cause esophageal ulcers and strictures. It may also increase your risk for esophageal cancer.

2. Barrett Esophagus

Barrett’s Esophagus is a complication of GERD wherein the contents of the stomach, including acid, reflux into the esophagus. Damage from acid can cause changes in the tissue lining the lower esophagus. These changes are associated with an increased risk of esophageal cancer.

3. Damage to the tooth enamel

Your teeth enamel may get permanently damaged by stomach acid reflux. Your likelihood of developing dental issues, such as tooth loss, may rise as a result. Chronic poor breath can also result from frequent acid reflux.

4. Irritated airways

Small amounts of acid can come up and may fall into the windpipe (which is separate from the esophagus). This can irritate your airways over time. Eventually, acid reflux may cause or worsen respiratory issues like asthma.

5. Esophageal cancer

Barrett's esophagus increases the risk of esophageal cancer. This type of cancer is relatively uncommon, and it's thankfully uncommon among the people who experience heartburn. Still, it's an important concern.

Getting the proper treatment for acid reflux lowers your risk of getting these complications. For occasional incidences of acid reflux, Gas-O-Fast is the best choice to give quick relief from acidity. Its 100% ayurvedic formula effectively works on acidity, gas and indigestion. However, if you frequently experience acid reflux then a visit to the doctor will be the best!