Gastroesophogeal reflux is not just heartburn

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is one of the most common digestive disorders in the world. It happens when acid comes up from the stomach, which is acid-resistant, into the esophagus, which is less acid-resistant.

Dr. James East, a gastroenterologist at Mayo Clinic Healthcare in London, said GERD may be common but there can be severe complications if it’s left untreated.

“GERD … is when you get acid and chemical damage to the lining of the esophagus,” East said.

You might feel a lump in the throat, have difficulty swallowing, have chest pain, have a cough or have worsening asthma-type symptoms.

“Complications of GERD include esophagitis, inflammation in the bottom of the esophagus,” East said. “If this is persistent, you can develop scarring and a stricture.”

But if it’s persistent and heals, the lining of the esophagus can change to a more acid-resistant form, which is Barrett’s esophagus. This complication affects 10 percent to 15 percent of people with GERD. And a much smaller group faces another risk, East noted.

“About 1 in 200 patients with Barrett’s esophagus per year will develop esophageal adenocarcinoma,” he said.