Stomach diseases are very common but cannot be underestimated. Acid reflux, which occurs when stomach acid flows back into the esophagus, is what causes stomach diseases.
When acid reflux occurs, you will experience what is called heartburn, which is a very unpleasant burning sensation in the chest. It may sound very simple, but if left untreated, this stomach disease can lead to dangerous complications. What are these complications?
The process of acid reflux
The stomach releases strong acid that helps break down food and protects the body from bacteria. This acid is called stomach acid. Stomach acid contains hydrochloric acid, which has the lowest pH. The stomach lining is specially designed to protect the stomach from hydrochloric acid; however, the esophagus does not have this protective layer.
There is a ring of muscle called the gastroesophageal sphincter in the esophagus. This ring acts as a valve that allows food to enter the stomach but not return to the esophagus. When malfunctions happen in this muscle, stomach acid can flow back into the esophagus, triggering the process of acid reflux. At the same time, when this stomach acid rises into the esophagus, you will feel a burning sensation in the esophagus and chest, which is called heartburn.
Heartburn is the most recognizable symptom when stomach acid rises into the esophagus. This discomfort can rise to the throat and leave a sour or bitter taste in the mouth.
Is acid reflux dangerous for the body?
Acid reflux itself does not pose a life-threatening risk, but repeated acid reflux can cause irritation to the lining of the esophagus. If this occurs and is not properly treated, it can lead to gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).
GERD can occur when acid reflux happens continuously, usually more than twice a week. You are at risk of experiencing serious health complications if this condition is left untreated.
GERD is a disease that cannot be cured. If you are diagnosed with GERD, you will have to undergo treatment and care related to GERD for the rest of your life. You also need to make lifestyle changes to prevent acid reflux. Without disciplined treatment, GERD can develop into health complications such as:
- Esophagitis: Esophagitis is inflammation that can damage the tissue of the esophagus, causing pain, difficulty swallowing, and chest pain.
- Esophageal Ulcer: An esophageal ulcer is a type of peptic ulcer that develops in the lining of the esophagus, occurring when the mucous lining that coats and protects the digestive tract is declining. As a result, stomach acid and other gastric fluids cause irritation to the gastrointestinal wall and lead to the formation of sores.
- Esophageal Stricture: Esophageal stricture is inflammation that eventually causes scarring or abnormal tissue growth in the esophagus. As a result, your esophagus becomes narrower and tighter, causing difficulty and pain when swallowing.
- Aspiration Pneumonia: Aspiration pneumonia is a lung infection that occurs from inhaling saliva, food, liquid, vomit, or foreign objects. Aspiration can be fatal if not treated.
- Barrett's Esophagus: Consistent stomach acid damage to the esophagus can change its lining, which squamous cells then take the place of. These cells are at risk of becoming cancerous and can lead to esophageal cancer.
- Esophageal Cancer: Esophageal cancer is the most concerning condition if GERD is not properly managed. The risk increases if you are obese, a heavy alcoholic, a smoker, or over the age of 55 with a poor lifestyle.
So, does this answer your curiosity? Therefore, doctors will advise that if you experience frequent acid reflux symptoms, you should consult a doctor. Properly treated acid reflux will not lead to fatal conditions, as long as you follow all the doctor's recommendations.
If you need other medical advice or consultation, you can either visit a doctor or make use of the consultation features that are available in the Ai Care application by downloading the Ai Care application from the App Store or Play Store.
- dr Anita Larasati Priyono
