Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is defined as a recurrent disease affecting the stomach, esophagus and larynx. Reflux occurs when food, stomach acid or bile back up into the food pipe from the stomach, according to the Mayo Clinic. Prevention and treatment can be very effective in remedying the side effects of GERD, but surgery is sometimes necessary to fix the problem. In addition to causing internal damage, GERD is responsible for several side effects.
Chest Pain
Chest pain is a side effect of GERD. The term "heartburn" describes the pain of the acid refluxing up the esophagus and into the throat. As the acid travels upward, it creates a burning sensation in the chest, hence the name heartburn. Along with the pain in the chest area, an individual may experience a burning sensation in the throat followed by a sour taste in the mouth, according to the Mayo Clinic.
Damaged Esophageal Sphincter
Reflux occurs when the esophageal sphincter opens when it should not and allows food or stomach contents to return back up the esophagus. The esophageal sphincter (ES) is a band of muscles at the bottom of the esophagus that acts like a flap, the Mayo Clinic explains. When this flap is relaxed, it opens. Chronic reflux can lead to weakening and irritation of the ES, which can create even more episodes of reflux. Surgery may be required to repair the damage or strengthen the ES.
Acid Damage to the Throat
The stomach acid should not enter the esophagus, larynx or mouth. These tissues are not fully protected from repeated acid exposure. Over time, GERD can erode the lining of the esophagus and damage the vocal cords. Inflammation can lead to a large array of symptoms including sore throat, dry cough, difficulty swallowing and/or the sensation of a lump in the throat, the Mayo Clinic explains. Many sufferers of GERD are awakened during sleep by acid reflux or wake in the morning with a long-lasting sore throat that is not responsive to common treatments.
Complications
According to GiCare.com, GERD can lead to several serious health concerns. Examples include, stomach inflammation, stomach ulcers and bleeding. Scarring and narrowing of the esophagus can also develop from chronic GERD. This can make it difficult to swallow.
Barrett's Esophagus
Barrett's esophagus is a serious condition that can develop when the cells in the lining of the esophagus change because of chronic GERD and, according to GiCare.com, may be a precursor to esophageal cancer. The Mayo Clinic points out that this condition is often diagnosed in people who have long-term GERD, but only a small number of people will develop Barrett's esophagus.
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