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At risk of developing esophageal cancer?

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GERD & Acid Reflux
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Posted 10/18/2017 12:53 AM (GMT 0)
I posted in an already existing thread but no one responded so I'm making my own topic.

I'm a 21-year-old male. I've had GERD (not heartburn, but a lot of gagging and belching) for around two years now.

I've also been taking PPIs for about a month, an SSRI for around 2-3 months and anti-psychotic and beta-blocker for around a year. I sleep right after I eat.

I was wondering if I should change these habits/medications. Do you guys think I'm at risk of developing Barrett's esophagus and consequently, esophageal cancer? If so, how long would it take if I continued these habits/medications?

Any response is much appreciated.
Posted 10/18/2017 11:54 AM (GMT 0)
First how were you diagnosed with GERD, was it through an endoscopy? Have you tried changing your diet to one that is GERD-friendly? Have you eliminated spicy, citrus, tomato-based, caffeine, chocolate, carbonated beverages as well as smoking and alcohol? Try keeping a food diary to try and pinpoint your potential trigger foods. It does not help to go to sleep right after a meal, that in itself can cause digestive issues. You should wait 2-3 hours after eating to go to bed. If you develop Barretts, it can be successfully treated, and the chance of you developing cancer is very small (0.5%).

Post Edited (SharonZ) : 10/18/2017 5:57:29 AM (GMT-6)

Posted 10/19/2017 11:52 PM (GMT 0)
No, I'm just assuming I have GERD because of the symptoms. I do keep a food diary. There's no pattern; the symptoms are there no matter what my diet is. I heard Barrett's sometimes has no symptoms until it's too late.
Posted 10/20/2017 11:36 AM (GMT 0)
At this point, it is assumed that you have GERD, and you are being treated you with PPIs. If you haven't seen a gastro doctor already, schedule an appointment and see if he suggests an endoscopy for a more thorough diagnosis. Another suggestion is to stop using Dr. Google, it's only going to cause you more anxiety and cause you to believe that you have/may develop cancer. Again, if you do develop Barrett's it's highly treatable and would be diagnosed through an endoscopy.
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