Get the Facts
Why is GERD a “big deal”?
GERD (Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease) can be an annoyance – but it can also be a killer. Persistent GERD can lead to Esophageal Cancer and most people won’t know they are at risk until it is too late!
Symptoms of GERD:
Many people think Heartburn is the only sign that you have GERD, but there are other symptoms to watch for:
• Persistent Cough,
• Continuing Hoarse Voice,
• Frequent Sore Throat, and
• Choking when you Lie Down
can all be signs that you need to talk to your doctor about GERD.
If you have heartburn that goes away without explanation or have a family history of Esophageal Cancer or Barrett’s Esophagus, you may be at increased risk for developing Esophageal Cancer.
Pills Don’t Take Away the Risk:
While medications can often take away the annoying symptoms of heartburn, they cannot eliminate the risk of developing Esophageal Cancer. So even if you take over-the-counter medications that take care of the heartburn, they won’t get rid of your risk of developing cancer. If any of this sounds familiar to you or someone you love, talk to a doctor about the risk of Esophageal Cancer.
