Chronic Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease

     It is believed that many individuals, including possibly yourself, have experienced acid reflux to some extent. While esophageal cancer may not be a familiar term, it is increasingly becoming a concern, especially as we continue to consume food daily. Chronic acid reflux often serves as a precursor to this condition.

Causes of Chronic Acid Reflux

     The primary cause of esophageal cancer is often linked to unhealthy lifestyle choices. These include lying down immediately after eating, consuming fatty foods, or overeating. Additional contributing factors include being overweight (obesity), stress, smoking, consuming alcohol, and frequently drinking carbonated beverages.

What is Acid Reflux?

     Acid reflux occurs when stomach acid flows back up into the esophagus. This can result from a malfunction of the lower esophageal sphincter or abnormal stomach contractions, allowing more acid to rise into the esophagus.

Symptoms of Acid Reflux

Symptoms in the Esophagus

• Burning pain in the chest, commonly referred to as heartburn, caused by inflammation of the esophagus due to acid.
• A sensation of tightness in the chest, like a lump in the throat, and difficulty breathing while lying down.
• Nausea and difficulty swallowing.
• Sour belching or the taste of bile in the mouth or throat.

Extraesophageal Symptoms:

• In the larynx and bronchial tubes: chronic cough, persistent sore throat, and hoarseness, especially in the morning, due to acid refluxing while sleeping, potentially leading to pneumonia or chest pain.

Chronic Acid Reflux and Esophageal Cancer

     While acid reflux may initially be an annoyance that disrupts daily life, if left untreated and allowed to become chronic, it can cause esophageal damage or strictures. This can lead to difficulties in swallowing, and in severe cases, esophageal cancer. Prolonged exposure to acid can alter the cells of the lower esophagus, resulting in cancer.

Treatment Options for Acid Reflux

The most effective way to treat and prevent acid reflux involves:

• Modifying eating habits to reduce flare-ups, including controlling the quantity and type of food consumed, and avoiding acidic, spicy, and fatty foods.
• Lifestyle changes include quitting smoking, maintaining a healthy weight, and managing stress.
• Avoid beverages like tea, coffee, soda, and alcohol.
• Not lying down immediately after meals; it is advisable to wait at least three hours after eating before lying down.

Watch Video: Acid Reflux – A Silent Threat that you should be aware of

Treating Chronic Acid Reflux

Current treatments for chronic acid reflux focus on lifestyle changes and medication. Doctors will diagnose patients using advanced tools and take a detailed medical history to develop appropriate treatment plans.

• Medication The primary treatment involves acid-reducing medications, which are typically recommended for a duration of 4 to 6 weeks, followed by a reassessment of symptoms. In cases with complications, additional medications may be prescribed to alleviate symptoms.
• If symptoms persist despite medication a nasogastric tube may be placed to measure acid levels in the esophagus for confirmation of reflux.

Should symptoms continue despite lifestyle modifications and acid-reducing medications doctors may recommend a 24-hour pH monitoring of the esophagus. If reflux is chronic, a consultation with a physician is advisable.