Is it heartburn, or something more?

BJC ACO wants you to know that if you are taking antacids regularly, you could be suffering from more than just heartburn.

In a recent national survey, 9 out of 10 people mistakenly assumed their gastroesophageal reflux disease (or GERD) was heartburn. Symptoms include bloating or gas, an acid taste in the mouth, trouble swallowing, regurgitation of food, pain in the chest, hoarseness in the morning, trouble swallowing, or dry cough. GERD occurs when stomach acid moves in the wrong direction and flows back into the esophagus. If left untreated, it can lead to serious complications such as bleeding or ulcers in the esophagus, which can eventually lead to esophageal cancer.

Although it is more serious than heartburn, GERD can be treated with lifestyle changes and medication. Talk to your physician if you’re experiencing GERD.