Most people occasionally experience symptoms of acid reflux, commonly known as heartburn. The burning sensation in the chest produced by reflux typically resolves on its own or is relieved with antacid medication. Generally, infrequent bouts of reflux cause no harm, but chronic, long-term reflux is associated with several, more severe complications. Controlling chronic reflux is an important step in the prevention of these potentially serious health problems.
Barrett's Esophagus
Barrett's esophagus, or BE, is when abnormal changes occur in the lining of the esophagus. In the United States, about 1 percent of adults have Barret's esophagus, according to the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse. Men are affected at about twice the rate of women. While reflux disease symptoms are associated with an increased risk of Barrett's esophagus, more than half of those with the condition have no reflux symptoms, states the University of Maryland Medical Center. Most people with BE are spared further complications, but a small number go on to develop esophageal cancer. BE in and of itself, has no symptoms. Diagnosis requires an endoscopic exam and biopsy to check for abnormal cells in the esophagus.
Esophageal Cancer
The type of esophageal cancer associated with acid reflux is called adenocarcinoma. It occurs in the lower one-third of the esophagus and accounts for 50 percent of esophagus cancers among white people, reports The Merck Manuals Online Medical Library. These cancers are rare, but when they occur they are usually preceded by Barrett's esophagus. In the early stages of esophageal cancer, people have no symptoms. Eventually, they experience weight loss and difficulty swallowing. If this type of cancer is found very early, and is localized to the lining of the esophagus, the outlook is favorable. Sadly, most esophageal cancer is diagnosed late in the course of the disease, when treatment is unlikely to improve long-term survival.
Erosive Esophagitis
People with severe, chronic reflux disease are at increased risk of erosive esophagitis. This condition results in injury and inflammation of the esophagus due to the effects of acid from the stomach. Ulcers can form in the esophagus and cause bleeding. The bleeding is sometimes significant, resulting in vomiting blood or causing dark, tarry stools. Over time, blood loss can result in iron deficiency anemia. Even though the effects of erosive esophagitis are sometimes severe, some people have no obvious signs or symptoms.
