Complications

Over time, chronic inflammation in your esophagus can cause:

 Narrowing of the esophagus (esophageal stricture). Damage to the lower esophagus from stomach acid
causes scar tissue to form. The scar tissue narrows the food pathway, leading to problems with swallowing.

 An open sore in the esophagus (esophageal ulcer). Stomach acid can wear away tissue in the esophagus,
causing an open sore to form. An esophageal ulcer can bleed, cause pain and make swallowing difficult.

 Precancerous changes to the esophagus (Barrett's esophagus). Damage from acid can cause changes in the
tissue lining the lower esophagus. These changes are associated with an increased risk of esophageal cancer.
More Information

 Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) care at Mayo Clinic

 What causes laryngospasm?

By Mayo Clinic Staff

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) care at Mayo Clinic

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Diagnosis & treatment

May 22, 2020

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