Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease
Alternate Names : GERD, Heartburn, Reflux Esophagitis
What can be done to prevent the disease?
There is no way to prevent gastroesophageal reflux. Once it develops, symptoms can be minimized by following treatments outlined below.
What are the long-term effects of the disease?
Most GERD sufferers have frequent, severe heartburn. This tears down and damages the cell wall lining of the esophagus. Without treatment, GERD can lead to the following conditions:
Barrett's esophagus, a precancerous change in the cells lining the esophagus
esophageal cancer
esophageal perforation, or a hole in the esophagus
esophageal stricture, or narrowing of the esophagus that interferes with eating
esophageal ulcers, which damage the lining further
esophagitis, or inflammation of the esophagitis
What are the risks to others?
GERD is not contagious and poses no risk to others.
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