GERD itself is not considered to be life-threatening. However, if left untreated for a long time, it can lead to serious health problems or cancer. These health issues may include:
Esophagitis: Esophagitis is the irritation and inflammation of the lining of the esophagus caused by constant/frequent acid reflux. If left untreated, it can lead to ulcers and strictures in the esophagus, heartburn, sore throat, hoarse voice, chest pain, bleeding, and trouble swallowing. Also, be aware that ulcers and strictures of the esophagus may increase your risk of developing esophageal cancer.
Esophageal ulcers: Esophageal ulcers result from damage to the esophagus. People with an ulcer may have a burning sensation in the chest, indigestion, pain when swallowing, nausea, heartburn, or bloody stools. Some people may not be aware that they have an ulcer. If left untreated, the ulcer can lead to esophageal perforation (a hole in your esophagus) or a bleeding ulcer.
Esophageal stricture: Untreated GERC can lead to the build-up of inflammation, scarring, and abnormal tissue growth in your esophagus. It can lead to a narrower and tighter esophagus. If it gets to that point, it can interfere with eating and drinking because it becomes harder for foods or liquids to pass from your esophagus to your stomach. You may also experience difficulty or pain with swallowing or constricted breathing.
Aspiration pneumonia: There is a possibility that the stomach acid that backs up into your esophagus can be inhaled into your lungs. This occurrence can lead to an infection known as aspiration pneumonia. In this case, you may experience fever, deep cough, chest pain, shortness of breath, wheezing, fatigue, or blue discoloration of the skin. Worst case scenario, the infection can be fatal if left untreated.
Barrett’s esophagus: Barrett’s esophagus is a condition that develops in about 10-15% of people who have long-term GERD. At this stage, damage from acid reflux can lead to changes in the cells lining the esophagus. These changes can eventually lead to the possibility of these abnormal cells becoming cancerous.
Esophageal cancer: Esophageal cancer starts at the esophagus and can be divided into Adenocarcinoma or Squamous cell carcinoma. Adenocarcinoma occurs in the lower part of the esophagus. Squamous cell carcinoma affects the upper and middle part of the esophagus and begins in the cells that line your esophagus. Most people don’t feel any symptoms until the cancer has reached a more advanced stage.