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Complications

By Mayo Clinic staff

Heartburn that occurs frequently and interferes with your routine is considered gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). GERD treatment may require prescription medications and, occasionally, surgery or other procedures. GERD can also cause serious complications.

See your doctor if your heartburn becomes more frequent or no longer responds to over-the-counter medications. Your doctor can determine if your heartburn is likely to be a symptom of GERD.

References
  1. Heart burn. American Gastroenterological Society. http://www.gastro.org/wmspage.cfm?parm1=848. Accessed April 17, 2009.
  2. Ferri FF. Ferri's Clinical Advisor 2009: Instant Diagnosis and Treatment. Philadelphia, Pa.: Mosby Elsevier; 2009:1232.
  3. Eat right to avoid heartburn. American Dietetic Association. http://www.eatright.org/cps/rde/xchg/ada/hs.xsl/home_18578_ENU_HTML.htm. Accessed April 23, 2009.
  4. Feldman M, et al. Sleisenger & Fordtran's Gastrointestinal and Liver Disease: Pathophysiology, Diagnosis, Management. 8th ed. Philadelphia, Pa.: Saunders Elsevier; 2006:115.
  5. Lee RA. Anxiety. In: Rakel D. Integrative Medicine. 2nd ed. Philadelphia, Pa.: Saunders Elsevier; 2007. http://www.mdconsult.com/das/book/body/133303323-7/0/1494/0.html. Accessed April 23, 2009.

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May 23, 2009

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