Barrett's esophagus is the most serious complication of long-term acid reflux disease. In this complication, the internal surface of the esophagus changes to resemble the surface of the intestine or stomach. This is one way the body tries to protect itself from further injury from stomach acid. When this happens, the risk of developing esophageal cancer increases. A sore throat, chronic hoarseness and cough, or laryngitis can develop from the irritation of refluxed stomach acid.
Some studies suggest that the majority of asthmatics have acid reflux disease.
All of the complications caused by heartburn can significantly impact your quality of life and require you to make long-term dietary and lifestyle changes. In some cases, heartburn sufferers may have a lower quality of life than people with congestive heart failure, coronary artery disease, or diabetes. Ask your doctor or healthcare professional for more information about heartburn. If you suffer from frequent, persistent heartburn two or more days a week, even if you have treated it and changed your diet, it could be acid reflux disease.