"Do I really need to worry about heartburn?"
For millions of Americans, enjoying a spicy meal or indulging in a piece of decadent chocolate cake comes at a price: the uncomfortable, burning sensation in the chest or upper abdomen known as heartburn. As the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK) explains, heartburn can result when stomach contents, like recently-consumed food and digestive juices, travel back up the esophagus - better known as acid reflux.
Occasional acid reflux and heartburn are normal and not necessarily cause for concern, says NIDDK. If, however, you experience acid reflux or heartburn at least twice a week for a few consecutive weeks, you may have gastro-esophageal reflux disease (GERD) - a serious condition that warrants concern and a trip to see your doctor.
Persistent, untreated heartburn can lead to serious health problems, including:
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Esophagitis, which can cause bleeding, ulcers, and pre-cancerous changes in the esophagus
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Strictures resulting swallowing problems
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Respiratory problems
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Barrett's esophagus, a condition which may lead to a 30-fold increase in the risk for esophageal cancer, explains the American College of Gastroenterology.
For the occasional heartburn sufferer, over-the-counter antacids or H2 blockers may help alleviate symptoms. You should see a doctor if your heartburn is frequent, and/or is marked by any of the following symptoms:
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Problems swallowing
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Sensation that food is trapped behind the breast bone
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Vomiting blood
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Shortness of breath, sore throat, or hoarse voice
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Weight loss
The American College of Gastroenterology encourages that, "By seeing your doctor early, the physical cause of GERD can be treated and more serious problems avoided."
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