Can you die from GERD disease?
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is common and not a life-threatening condition.
However, in rare cases, GERD can lead to serious complications. Among the serious complications of GERD are ulcers, perforations, erosions, and bleeding in the esophagus. Also, a dangerous complication of GERD is aspiration pneumonia [1, 2, 3].
However, in most cases, there is enough time to prevent the progression and development of any complications of GERD. Thus, the disease is uncomfortable, but your life is not in danger.
What is GERD?
Gastroesophageal reflux disease is a disorder that is caused by the reflux of stomach contents into the esophagus and oral cavity [4, 5].
GERD is a common condition and affects about 20% of Americans [6]. It is associated with heartburn, especially after eating [4, 5].
GERD can be divided into two forms. One is the erosive reflux disease, and the second is the non-erosive reflux disease. Non-erosive reflux disease is more common (70% of cases of GERD) [7].
Another classification of GERD is according to its symptoms. When only the esophagus is affected, we can speak about an esophageal GERD. When the symptoms affect also the upper airways and oral cavity, the GERD can be called extraesophageal [7].
What are the causes of GERD?
GERD is often caused by multiple factors.
The direct cause of the symptoms is the irritation or inflammation of the lining caused by acid reflux [8].
One of the common causes of the acidic content that can leave the esophagus is lower sphincter impairment. This sphincter, in normal conditions, closes the stomach tightly. However, sometimes it is not functional and thus leaves the stomach not sealed properly [9, 10, 11].
Many factors increase the risk of GERD. Among the most common are obesity, delayed stomach emptying, pregnancy, high-fat consumption, hiatal hernia, and poor eating habits (like fast eating and eating large portions) [9, 8, 10].
Also, beverages can increase the risk of GERD. For example, coffee, carbonated beverages, and alcohol can worsen the symptoms. They can also contribute to the development of GERD [9, 10].
Some medications can also cause GERD. Among the known are alpha-blockers, anti-inflammatories, sedatives, and nitrates [10].
What are the symptoms of GERD?
Gastroesophageal reflux disease is a common condition that can cause a variety of symptoms.
One of the most common symptoms is heartburn. It is a burning or heat sensation behind the sternum. Heartburn occurs often after food [12, 13].
Other symptoms of GERD include:
- regurgitation,
- difficulty swallowing,
- chest pain,
- chronic coughing,
- hoarse voice,
- nausea and vomiting,
- bad breath [12, 13].
What can make GERD dangerous?
GERD is a common and normally well-manageable disease. Therefore, it is not considered dangerous.
However, in rare cases, it can lead to serious complications. Especially when not treated, it can lead to dangerous conditions.
Among the most common and potentially dangerous complications are ulcers. They arise as a consequence of chronic irritation and inflammation [12]. Ulcers can be superficial, but with time, the acid can penetrate the tissue deeply.
Ulcers can lead to esophageal bleeding. In rare cases, even perforation of the esophagus can occur.
Another complication is esophageal stricture. In this condition, the esophagus narrows. It is caused by chronic inflammation. A narrowed esophagus leads to problems with swallowing and even choking [12].
Patients with a narrowed esophagus can also try to avoid food. This can result in malnutrition [12].
One of the most severe long-term complications of GERD is Barrett's esophagus. It is a condition that leads to adenocarcinoma, a cancer that is associated with GERD. It arises as a result of chronic irritation and inflammation of the esophagus [13]. About one in ten GERD-affected people will develop this condition [12].
In some cases, stomach acid rises to the throat or mouth. When the amount of reflux is large or it happens during the night, it can enter the lungs. This aspired acidic content in the lungs can lead to a condition called “aspiration pneumonia” [12].
Aspiration pneumonia is an inflammation of the lungs. Inflammation of the lungs, when left untreated, can even lead to death.
When to see a doctor with GERD?
It is difficult to say when exactly to see a doctor for any disease. However, in GERD, it can be estimated based on the frequency of the symptoms.
When you start experiencing the symptoms many times during the week, you should visit your doctor. In GERD, not only the severity but also the frequency of the symptoms are crucial [12].
Also, when you have to take some over-the-counter antacids and they don’t help anymore, you should see a doctor.
Remember not to overdose on them. Medication has safety limits and can be toxic or have adverse effects when overdosed.
The general rule for when to look for medical help with GERD can be simplified. You should see a doctor when GERD starts affecting your daily activities [14].
When you feel chest pain or severe pain while swallowing, you should refer to a doctor as soon as possible. Chest pain can be a cardiac problem, like a heart attack. While pain when swallowing should be followed by a gastroenterologist [15, 9].