Health Watch is a Public Service of the Office of News and Publications and is intended to provide general information only and should not replace the advice of a medical professional. You should contact your physician if you have questions about any of these topics.
This week on Health Watch, we’re talking about heartburn, that painful sensation in the chest that’s caused by stomach acid going up the esophagus. Most of the time, heartburn is more of a nuisance or discomfort, but it can be a sign of something more serious, including esophageal cancer or Barrett’s esophagus.
Dr. Stuart Spechler, a digestive diseases expert at UT Southwestern Medical Center, says if you’re having to take heartburn medication or antacids daily, you may have reason to be concerned. Other possible danger signs to beware of: pain or difficulty swallowing, weight loss, fever or signs of bleeding, including black stools, which could indicate bleeding from the esophagus into the stomach. If you notice any of these symptoms along with chronic heartburn, you should see a doctor immediately.
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June 2007
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