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) Northeast Ohio Health and Medical Consumer News
But about 10 percent of those who suffer from acid reflux will develop a precancerous condition known as Barrett's esophagus. In turn, about one in 200 of those cases will develop into a type of esophageal cancer that's one of the deadliest cancers to treat. And while those numbers may seem low, the rate of adenocarcinoma esophageal cancer is climbing at such a high rate that new attention is being paid to the cause and treatments for Barrett's and esophageal cancer.The esophagus is a long tube from the pharynx that contracts to help move food into the stomach. People with Barrett's have a damaged esophagus lining and a loosening of the esophageal sphincter, which helps keep food down.
White men over 50, with a history of chronic heartburn, have the highest risk for Barrett's. More>>
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) Dr. Murray Feingold: Burning issues of reflux
In a recent article, GE reflux was defined as the presence of two or more episodes of heartburn a week. The symptoms are due the acid contents of the stomach traveling up to the esophagus as a result of reflux. But symptoms other than heartburn may also occur.A chronic cough is frequently associated with GE reflux. So is hoarseness and frequent throat clearing. It may also cause an increase in asthma symptoms and erosion of dental enamel.
Chronic inflammation of the esophagus due to GE reflux can result in scarring of the esophagus and formation of excessive scar tissue. This can cause narrowing of the esophagus and difficulty swallowing, or dysphagia.
Studies have also shown an increase incidence of adenocarcinoma of the esophagus in individuals with GE reflux. More>>
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) 10 Serious Pain Symptoms
Feeling fuller than normal after eating less than usual could warn of gastrointestinal problems, ranging from indigestion caused by acid reflux to some cancers. If this feeling lasts for days or weeks, a physician should be consulted, especially if other symptoms are present such as nausea and vomiting, abdominal pain or bloating, fever and chills or weight changes. 6. Vaginal bleeding after menopause Vaginal spotting or bleeding after menopause may be caused by changes in vaginal tissue, which can become thinner and more fragile as estrogen levels decrease. In some cases, however, postmenopausal bleeding can be a symptom of gynecological cancer. A medical valuation is important. 7. Change in bowel habits Mild diarrhea that lasts more than a week, constipation that lasts more than two weeks, or unexplained, sudden urges to have a bowel movement is the time when immediate medical help should be taken. More>> - (
) News to Take to Heart
The question about medicine used to block stomach acid in patients with heartburn, reflux, and ulcers may warrant further study, according to Steven Dunn, a pharmacist at UK and assistant professor at the UK College of Pharmacy. Dunn will present a substudy of research from the CREDO trial, which involved a study of the antiplatelet "blood thinner" clopidogrel in procedures such as stenting and angioplasty to open blocked heart vessels. . More>>