Complications and Risk Factors for Acid Reflux - Chronic esophageal inflammation can lead to numerous medical conditions like esophageal stricture, esophageal ulcer, Barrett's Eophagus. Scarring and narrowing of esophagus lead to esophageal stricture.
Complications and Risk Factors for Acid Reflux
New York (USA), June 19, 2013
Acid Reflux: Complications
Chronic esophageal inflammation can lead to numerous medical conditions like:
Esophageal Stricture: Esophagus narrows and cells in lower esophagus scar due to frequent exposure to stomach acids. This scar tissue narrows food pipe leading to difficulty in swallowing.
Esophageal Ulcer: Stomach acid recurrently passing through esophagus erodes esophageal tissue forming open sores. These sores bleed and cause pain.
Barrett’s Eophagus: This is a precursor to esophageal cancer although not the final determinant. Esophageal lining tissue changes in color and composition. Doctors normally recommend endoscopy examinations at regular intervals to detect esophageal cancer in the early stages itself.
Acid Reflux: Risk Factors
– Obesity
– Smoking
– Alcohol consumption
– Pregnancy
– Diabetes
– Connective tissue disorders or Scleroderma
– Delayed stomach emptying
– Asthma
– Dry mouth
– Irritation and spasm of airways due to acid or Bronchospasm
– Dental problems
– Scarring and narrowing of esophagus leading to esophageal stricture
– Drugs and medications like beta-blockers for high blood pressure or heart disease, anticholinergics, bronchodilators for asthma, dopamine-active drugs for Parkinson’s disease, calcium channel blockers for high blood pressure, Progestin for abnormal menstrual bleeding or birth control, Tricyclic antidepressants, and different sedatives prescribed for insomnia or anxiety
– Heartburn and gastro esophageal reflux caused due to pregnancy or other medical conditions
– Hiatal hernia
– Hoarseness of throat or chronic cough
– Esophageal ulcer
Acid Reflux – Definition and Diagnosis
Definition and Diagnosis of Acid Reflux
Acid Reflux – Causes and Evaluation
Causes and Evaluation of Acid Reflux
Acid Reflux – Signs and Symptoms
Signs and Symptoms of Acid Reflux
Acid Reflux – Diagnostic Tests and Procedures
Diagnostic Tests and Procedures for Acid Reflux
Acid Reflux – Treatments and Medications
Treatments and Medications for Acid Reflux
Acid Reflux – Clinical Trials and Research Studies
Clinical Trials and Research Studies on Acid Reflux
Acid Reflux – Home Remedies and Alternative Therapies
Home Remedies and Alternative Therapies for Acid Reflux
Acid Reflux – Prevention and Coping
Prevention and Coping with Acid Reflux
Acid Reflux – Lifestyle Changes and Self-Help
Lifestyle Changes and Self-Help for Acid Reflux
Acid Reflux – Prevention, Treatment, and Remedies
Acid Reflux – Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis, Prevention, Treatment, and Remedies