It is generally not a big deal if you sometimes get mild heartburn or acid reflux after eating. However, if you get heartburn twice weekly or more often, you may have gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), which affects 20% of the American population. This medical issue arises when the sphincter (valve) prevents food and liquid from flowing backward from the esophagus into the stomach. The acid from your stomach may now enter your esophagus and cause tissue damage. In addition to causing several unpleasant side effects, Frisco GERD may significantly reduce your standard of living. In addition, Barrett’s esophagus and other health problems are more likely to develop if GERD is not addressed (a precancerous condition).
Here are five of the most prevalent indicators of GERD. Make an appointment with your doctor to examine if you have any of these symptoms.
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When heartburn lasts more than two weeks
While the occasional episode of heartburn may not need a trip to the doctor, persistent heartburn that lasts for more than two weeks and happens many times per week probably should. Most people who experience this symptom can find relief from over-the-counter or prescribed drugs. In highly unusual cases, however, persistent heartburn may signify something much more severe.
Heartburn may put you at risk for Barrett’s esophagus, a precancerous disease brought on by damage to the esophagus tissue. When that happens, a person increases their chance of developing esophageal cancer, now the nation’s worst malignancy. A doctor will do an endoscopy, inserting a tube down the neck and into the esophagus. If you have chronic heartburn, you should talk to your doctor about the possibility of esophageal sphincter reinforcement surgery.
Dental problems
The first symptom of GERD is often unrelated to the digestive tract. This gastrointestinal issue may be a red flag but manifest in dental symptoms. If stomach acid backs up into the mouth, it indicates a possible reversal of normal digestive flow. If this occurs, the acid in your stomach will eat away at the enamel of your teeth. The tooth is more vulnerable to decay and injury when the enamel is thin.
Persistent hiccups
It is normal to get the occasional hiccup, but if you are hiccupping all the time, it might be a sign that you have got GERD. Remember that GERD is a condition where stomach acid comes back into your throat. It can cause a lot of problems, including persistent hiccups.
Black stools
If you are experiencing black stools, it is time to see a doctor. It is a sign that something is seriously wrong, and you could be bleeding internally.
Vomiting blood
If you are vomiting blood, it is time to see a doctor. It could be a sign that you have GERD; if left untreated, it can lead to serious health problems. So how do you know if you are vomiting blood? It can be tricky to tell, but usually, it will be rusty or black. If you are seeing blood in your vomit, it is time to check out.
GERD is a common problem, but that does not mean you must deal with the symptoms. If you are experiencing any of the five signs listed above, see your doctor and get the help you need. With the proper treatment, you can get your GERD under control and start feeling better.
