Secondary Problems of Acid Indigestion

Acid indigestion, or heartburn, is relatively common. It occurs in approximately 19.8% of the population on a weekly basis, according to About Gerd. Heartburn itself usually causes few problems--a person experiences mild discomfort and may need to take an acid-blocking medicine. However, persistent heartburn that occurs on a regular basis over five or more years, or severe heartburn that is painful enough to wake you up or cause eating problems, is more serious. Severe, persistent and painful acid indigestion is indicative of a condition called acid reflux or GERD, which affects between 5 and 7 percent of the population. Those who have acid reflux experience acid indigestion on a regular basis and can have serious secondary problems as a result of the persistent acid indigestion.

Esophagitis

• Esophagitis is one potential complication of acid indigestion, especially if the acid indigestion occurs frequently. When the stomach digests foods, acid is produced. If the digestive process does not work properly, too much acid travels from the stomach into the esophagus. This problem, called indigestion, can lead to damage of the lining of the esophagus, which is not capable of dealing with repeated exposure to large amounts of stomach acid. When the lining of the esophagus is repeatedly exposed to acid from indigestion, injury occurs in the form of erosion of the lining or ulcers. This is a secondary condition called esophagitis, which may cause bleeding or pain.

Barrett's Esophagus

• Patients with chronic acid indigestion or acid reflux may also be diagnosed with Barrett's esophagus. Barrett's esophagus refers to abnormal changes in the lining of the cells of the esophagus, caused by repeated exposure to stomach acid. These esophagus cells begin to change to resemble cells lining the small intestine. Barrett's esophagus occurs as a secondary problem of acid indigestion in men more frequently than in women. In approximately one out of 200 cases, this condition can lead to esophageal cancer.

Strictures

• Acid indigestion can also cause a narrowing of the esophagus. This secondary problem, called strictures, occurs when the lining of the esophagus is repeatedly damaged by acid and become scarred. The scarring eventually causes the esophagus to narrow and it may become difficult to swallow foods or liquids. This secondary problem is usually treated by a doctor, who uses an instrument to dilate (stretch) the esophagus.

Esophageal Cancer

• Although it is rare, esophageal cancer is one potential secondary problem related to persistent and chronic acid indigestion. Acid reflux-related cancers are generally adrenocarcimonas, which develop in the lower portion of the esophagus that is exposed to the most acid during indigestion. The condition develops because the acid causes abnormal cell development, which eventually becomes cancerous. Usually, there are no symptoms associated with esophageal cancer, so the condition is often not diagnosed until the cancer is advanced.

Treatments

• Secondary problems can be avoided by taking steps to control and manage your acid indigestion, especially if you have persistent or chronic heartburn. Lifestyle modification may involve avoiding fatty foods, spicy foods, citrus fruits, tomatoes, and other food that aggravates your acid indigestion. You may also chose to take acid-blocking medication before a meal, and refrain from lying down after a meal, in order to minimize indigestion.