Symptoms and complications associated with GERD

GERD, or gastroesophageal reflux disease, is a condition in which acid and other contents of the stomach move back up into the esophagus, causing a burning sensation in the chest. Symptoms of GERD can include heartburn, regurgitation, chest pain, difficulty swallowing, and an acidic taste in the mouth. In some cases, GERD can lead to complications such as esophagitis, Barrett’s esophagus, and even esophageal cancer. Esophagitis is an inflammation of the lining of the esophagus caused by the reflux of stomach acid. Symptoms include difficulty swallowing, chest pain, and heartburn. It can also cause scarring, narrowing of the esophagus, and bleeding. Barrett’s Esophagus is a condition in which the lining of the esophagus changes due to the reflux of stomach acid. This can lead to dysplasia, a pre-cancerous condition, and eventually to esophageal cancer. Symptoms of Barrett’s Esophagus include difficulty swallowing and heartburn. Esophageal cancer is a rare, but potentially serious complication of GERD.