It affects approximately 12-20% of the world’s population and, if left unattended, the condition can progress to more serious diseases.
Summary
Gastroesophageal reflux is a common disease, affecting approximately 12%-20% of the population. If left untreated, it can develop into more serious diseases, such as cancer. Sensations such as burning and burning are common, but specific care and tests are needed for treatment.
Although gastroesophageal reflux is one of the most widespread diseases in the world, affecting approximately 12%-20% of the population, according to the Brazilian Society of Digestive Motility and Neurogastroenterology (SBMDN), the condition deserves specific monitoring and treatment.
Typically, sensations such as heartburn and burning sensation can appear after overeating or skipping a meal, for example, but when the situation is left aside and occurs frequently, it can actually result in illness.
“What many don’t know is that, if reflux is not treated, it can progress to more serious diseases, such as cancer, esophagitis, among others”, comments Renata D’Alpino, oncologist at the University Oncoclinics San Paolo.
How can reflux cause cancer?
Gastric acid, when it comes into contact with the esophagus, contributes to the possible onset of diseases, as it causes inflammation and promotes mutations. In general, conditions such as esophagitis can contribute to the development of tumors, but this is not a rule.
“Chronic reflux can cause Barrett’s esophagus. This condition tends to cause changes in the cells, which can increase the development of the neoplasm by more than 20 times,” he says.
According to the oncologist, it is essential that if the patient has reflux, the situation is investigated. “He will be able to perform tests such as endoscopy, which will analyze the pathology and the possible complications resulting from it”, she explains.
Although it is more common over the age of 55, gastric cancer is not uncommon and can occur even in younger people. One of the main hypotheses of the tumor, which tends to appear in the esophagus and stomach, is its development due to the worsening of diet and other lifestyle habits.
How to identify reflux
It can be more or less intense, some signs may indicate the possibility of reflux, going beyond heartburn, burning and the return of liquids. Are they:
• Clearing your throat
• Chronic cough
• Chest pain
• Hoarseness
• Sore throat
How to relieve reflux
Because it is chronic, only the signs causing the irritation can be treated. According to Renata D’Alpino, the pathology does not have a specific cause that generates the disease, but it is necessary to keep an eye on the risk factors.
“Fatty diets, coffee, obesity, smoking, medications, stress and tiredness can contribute to the onset of reflux. However, each case must be analyzed individually for the best treatment,” he explains.
At home the patient can adopt some measures to alleviate the discomfort: “Habits such as holding the head a little higher before going to bed, eating smaller meals, avoiding acidic foods and waiting three hours between a meal and going to bed are important measures”, concludes the oncologist.
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Source: Terra
Ben Stock is a lifestyle journalist and author at Gossipify. He writes about topics such as health, wellness, travel, food and home decor. He provides practical advice and inspiration to improve well-being, keeps readers up to date with latest lifestyle news and trends, known for his engaging writing style, in-depth analysis and unique perspectives.
