Chronic bile reflux is a condition in which the bile flows upward from the small intestine into the stomach and the esophagus. Bile is a digestive fluid produced in the liver, and its reflux is often accompanied with acid reflux, where the stomach acids flow back into the esophagus. Symptoms include heartburn, vomiting bile, coughing and nausea. Chronic bile reflux can only be managed with medications, and severe cases may require surgery. If not treated, chronic bile reflux can lead to various complications.
Heartburn
MayoClinic.com reports that heartburn is a complication of chronic bile reflux. When heartburn occurs occasionally, it is not very worrisome; however, if heartburn is a symptom of gastroesophageal disease, or GERD, it can irritate and inflame the esophageal tissue.
Esophageal Stricture
When the bile constantly flows upward into the esophagus, it can form scar tissue. MayoClinic.com states that formation of scar tissue in the esophagus narrows the tube, leading to problems with swallowing and a higher risk of choking.
Gastritis
MedlinePlus states that gastritis is a complication of chronic bile reflux. Constant exposure to the bile causes irritation and swelling in the lining of the stomach, a condition called gastritis. Symptoms include abdominal pain and indigestion, loss of appetite, vomiting blood, and dark stools. If ignored, gastritis can lead to stomach ulcers, bleeding and stomach cancer.
Barrett's Esophagus
A change in the color and composition of the tissue in the lower esophagus is called Barrett's esophagus. MayoClinic.com says that this is a complication that can occur due to chronic bile reflux. In this condition, the tissues in the esophagus are replaced by tissues similar to the lining of the intestines, a condition called intestinal metaplasia.
Esophageal Cancer
Chronic bile reflux also makes the individual prone to cancer of the esophagus, according to MayoClinic.com. The cancer may occur anywhere in the tube, and may prove to be difficult to diagnose in the early stages.
