Serious Acid Reflux Symptoms

All symptoms of acid reflux disease are potentially serious. Untreated acid reflux disease, or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), can lead to irreversible damage to the lining of the esophagus and eventually esophageal cancer. Recognizing the symptoms and acknowledging that they are serious is the first step toward getting effective treatment.

Identification

• Acid reflux disease is a condition in which the lower esophageal sphincter between the esophagus and stomach does not open and close properly. As a result, acidic stomach contents can re-enter the esophagus, potentially causing serious damage.

Misconceptions

• Heartburn two or more times per week is the most obvious symptom of acid reflux disease. But in what is called "silent" acid reflux disease, sufferers do not experience a sensation of heartburn, though the condition is just a serious.

Symptoms

• Frequent sore throat, dry cough, chronic bronchitis, asthma, trouble swallowing and regurgitation are possible symptoms of acid reflux disease that should be taken seriously. Another symptom often not people often forget to mention to their doctor is a feeling of a lump in the throat, also called globus.

Effects

• Left untreated, acid reflux can cause serious damage to the esophagus including ulcerations, a precancerous condition of the esophageal lining called Barrett's esophagus, and esophageal cancer.

Considerations

• Symptoms of acid reflux disease cannot be adequately addressed with antacids or over-the-counter acid blockers. Only a doctor can properly diagnose acid reflux disease, recommend the correct treatment, and make sure you are not developing serious or life-threatening complications.