GERD, or gastroesophageal reflux disease, is a condition in which gastroesophageal reflux (GER) occurs twice or more a week on a persistent basis, according to the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse. Gastroesophageal reflux results from the improper closure or spontaneous opening of the esophageal sphincter, the valve that normally prevents stomach acid and partially digested food from moving back up into the esophagus. Reflux of acid causes heartburn, which generally presents as a burning sensation in the chest and abdomen. GERD occurs in individuals of all ages and races. Aside from the symptomatic heartburn pain of GERD, the condition can also cause other, more serious complications if left untreated.
Peptic Strictures
A peptic stricture is a narrowing of the bottom part of the esophagus that results from a build-up of scar tissue. According to the American College of Gastroenterology, this scar tissue is caused by cell damage from acid exposure. Peptic strictures can make swallowing difficult if they become severe.
Esophageal Ulcers
Open sores can develop in the lining of the esophagus as the frequent acid reflux of GERD irritates and damages this tissue. Bleeding, severe pain and difficulty swallowing can all be symptoms of an esophageal ulcer caused by GERD.
Barrett's Esophagus
When the frequent heartburn of GERD irritates the esophagus in certain susceptible people, Barrett's esophagus may occur. Barrett's esophagus is characterized by cell changes in the esophageal lining, which can be seen through an endoscope or through a microscopic analysis of biopsied tissue. Barrett's esophagus develops in about 10 to 15 percent of individuals who have GERD, according to the American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy. A small proportion of those who develop Barrett's esophagus will also go on to develop esophageal cancer.
Esophageal Cancer
Adenocarcinoma of the esophagus, a type of esophageal cancer, can occur after years of having GERD. Esophageal cancer is potentially fatal. Individuals with Barrett's esophagus resulting from long-term GERD are at risk, so they should be monitored on a regular basis to try and catch any precancerous cell changes before they become full-blown cancer.
Airway Disorders
While still under investigation, there does seem to be a link between GERD and the development of airway diseases, according to the Cleveland Clinic. GERD may contribute to airway disorders by allowing stomach acids to go up the esophagus and reach the lower or upper airway, where they may cause laryngitis or exacerbate asthma symptoms. Another suggested mechanism is that the irritation of the esophagus causes a subsequent tightening of the air passages, making breathing difficult and contributing to asthma.
References
- Mayo Clinic: GERD Complications
- The American College of Gastroenterology: The Word on GERD
- American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy: GERD, Barrett's Esophagus and the Risk for Esophageal Cancer
- National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse: Heartburn, Gastroesophageal Reflux (GER), and Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)
- Cleveland Clinic: GERD and Asthma
