When to be concerned about acid reflux

Many people experience acid reflux. It happens when stomach acid flows backward into the esophagus (the tube between the throat and stomach). Though uncomfortable, acid reflux typically goes away quickly on its own.

But when reflux symptoms are frequent or get worse, it’s time to see your provider. You may have gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), which can increase your risk of esophageal cancer.

Igor Brichkov, MD, a thoracic surgeon with Atlantic Health, shares more information about acid reflux, GERD and esophageal cancer, and how minimally invasive treatments can help.

What are the symptoms of acid reflux?

Common symptoms of acid reflux include:

• Chest pain · Heartburn
• Indigestion
• Nausea after eating
• Regurgitation of food or liquid
• Shortness of breath
• Sore throat

“Occasional reflux is common and may not require medical attention,” says Dr. Brichkov. “However, when these symptoms occur several times a week, disrupt sleep or interfere with daily routines, it may indicate GERD.”

How do I manage GERD, and why is it important?

Ongoing exposure to stomach acid from GERD can irritate and inflame the esophagus. Untreated GERD can gradually change the cells that line the esophagus, a condition called Barrett’s esophagus.

“The body adapts to acid exposure by replacing the normal lining of the esophagus with cells better suited to withstand acid,” explains Dr. Brichkov. “But it also increases the likelihood of precancerous changes over time. Fortunately, the process develops slowly over years, creating opportunities for early detection and treatment.”

Monitoring and managing your reflux symptoms can significantly reduce long-term risks. GERD management may involve:

• Avoiding tobacco
• Avoiding trigger foods
• Eating smaller meals
• Maintaining a healthy weight
• Not lying down soon after eating
• Reducing alcohol intake
• Taking medications, such as proton pump inhibitors, to decrease acid production

Treatments for precancerous conditions

If you have Barrett’s esophagus, minimally invasive endoscopic treatments can help prevent it from getting worse. Radiofrequency ablation uses an endoscope (a thin, flexible tube with a light and camera) to deliver controlled heat and remove abnormal cells.

This outpatient procedure lets you return to normal activities quickly while reducing your risk of esophageal cancer.

[H2] Who is most at risk of esophageal cancer? Esophageal cancer is relatively uncommon, but certain factors increase your risk. Most cases occur after age 55, and men are diagnosed more than women. Other risk factors include:

• Barrett’s esophagus
• GERD
• Heavy alcohol consumption
• Obesity
• Tobacco use

Esophageal cancer symptoms

Early-stage esophageal cancer may not cause noticeable symptoms. Dr. Brichkov says he finds many cases while testing for reflux or swallowing concerns. As the condition progresses, patients may experience:

• Chest or upper back discomfort
• Chronic cough or hoarseness
• Difficulty swallowing
• Persistent heartburn
• Unintentional weight loss

These symptoms can overlap with other conditions, but when they persist or worsen, you should get an evaluation — especially if you have a history of GERD.

Early-stage esophageal cancer treatments

Advances in minimally invasive care now make it possible to treat early-stage esophageal cancer without traditional surgery. One innovative option, endoscopic mucosal resection, is available at only a few hospitals in New Jersey, including Atlantic Health.

This procedure allows doctors to remove cancerous tissue from the esophagus using specialized instruments that they pass through a flexible scope. It can reduce recovery time and preserve healthy tissue.

Because there are no external incisions, recovery is often faster and more comfortable than with traditional surgeries. Many patients go home the same day or after a short hospital stay and return to daily activities within about a week.

“With early detection and today’s minimally invasive treatment options, we can often manage both precancerous and early-stage esophageal cancers effectively,” says Dr. Brichkov. “That doesn’t mean you should ignore persistent acid reflux, though. What may begin as a mild inconvenience can signal changes in the esophagus that deserve attention.”