Gastroesophageal reflux disease, or GERD, can cause chronic inflammation in the esophagus if left untreated. This can lead to more serious complications that can make it difficult to swallow, or increase the risk of developing esophageal cancer. Some of the conditions GERD can lead to are: - Esophageal stricture, which is a narrowing of the esophagus. This is the result of the formation of scar tissue on the lower esophagus from the presence of stomach acid. When this happens, the pathway for food to pass through is narrowed, which can cause problems with swallowing. - Esophageal ulcer, which is an open sore along the esophagus. As the stomach acid passes back through the esophagus, it can wear away the tissue, causing open sores to form. Esophageal ulcers can cause pain and bleeding, as well as making it difficult to swallow. - Barrett’s esophagus, which are precancerous changes that happen to the esophagus. The tissue that lines the lower esophagus can change as a result of damage from the stomach acid, which increases the risk of developing esophageal cancer. While GERD isn’t life-threatening if left untreated, it can cause serious complications and lead to more serious conditions. If you are experiencing acid reflux and symptoms of GERD, the team at Diamond Gastroenterology can provide you with a proper diagnosis and get you on a treatment plan to minimize your symptoms. We serve patients from Oak Park IL, River Forest IL, Cicero IL, River Grove IL, Forest Park IL, Berwyn IL, Melrose Park IL and Broadview IL.