Are GERD and heartburn serious?

Occasional heartburn is very common and rarely serious, but frequent heartburn can be a symptom of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), which is more serious. In addition to the discomfort associated with GERD, the inflammation it causes in the esophagus can lead to serious complications, such as bleeding, ulcers, and scarring. If scar tissue builds up, the esophagus can become narrow and cause difficulty when you swallow. Ulcers and bleeding in the esophagus can also make it hard to swallow. In some people, the irritation of the lining of the esophagus can lead to changes in the cells there, putting the person at risk for esophageal cancer. This condition, known as Barrett's esophagus, is rare, but it is a risk you and your doctor should discuss if you have chronic GERD. Your doctor or a specialist can examine the esophagus through a narrow tube called an endoscope if there is a risk of Barrett's esophagus.