One study suggested that cancer of the esophagus develops more often in patients who have had heartburn more frequently and/or for a longer period of time. Goals of gerd treatment are reducing reflux, relieving symptoms, and preventing damage to the esophagus. Accordingly, perhaps screening for Barrett’s esophagus is realistic only for those GERD patients with frequent and long-standing heartburn. However, studies have yet to demonstrate the value of this approach. No one knows the exact cause of gastroesophageal reflux. The following are several contributing factors that weaken or relax the lower esophageal sphincter, making reflux worse:
Make your health care provider aware that you are using self-care measures so that he or she can monitor how well they work and how often you need to use them.

This entry was posted on Thursday, November 17th, 2011 at 5:25 pm and is filed under General. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. Both comments and pings are currently closed.