Khaberni - A study showed that chronic acid reflux could increase the risk of a heart attack by about a third.
Gastroesophageal reflux disease is a chronic digestive condition in which stomach acid flows back into the esophagus, the tube that connects the throat to the stomach, causing heartburn, chest pain, and difficulty swallowing.
Without treatment, this condition can cause permanent damage to the esophagus and the respiratory system.
According to "Daily Mail", researchers now believe that it could expose patients to an increased risk of having a heart attack.
In the new study, scientists in Philadelphia analyzed the medical data of more than 1.3 million patients across 6 studies to determine whether gastroesophageal reflux disease is a risk factor for a heart attack.
Estimating the risk to the heart
They found that those with gastroesophageal reflux disease have a 27% higher risk of having a heart attack compared with those who do not have this condition.
Chronic inflammation
Researchers believe that chronic inflammation and autonomic system failure resulting from esophageal reflux could likely be the cause of this increased risk.
Previous studies had also shown that esophageal reflux and chronic heart diseases have similar risk factors.
Dr. Tensai Anibo, the lead author of the study, said: "These results underscore the need for further research into preventative strategies and targeted interventions, such as acid suppression therapy and lifestyle modifications, to mitigate the risk of cardiovascular diseases in patients with esophageal reflux."
Treating esophageal reflux
Esophageal reflux treatments include dietary changes - such as avoiding foods that cause symptoms and eating smaller, more frequent meals - in addition to lifestyle modifications, which may include weight loss and changing the sleeping position.
Medications such as antacids that neutralize stomach acid and proton pump inhibitors also treat damage to the esophagus. However, their long-term use negatively affects the arteries.
