That burning after a plate of biryani, the sour taste climbing your throat after chai, the heaviness that follows a late-night Adda — they may feel like small discomforts in your busy life. But what if your “acidity” isn’t just acidity anymore?
What if it’s your body’s quiet warning of something far more dangerous — GERD, the silent condition that can slowly damage your food pipe and, if ignored, lead to oesophageal cancer?
In a city where long workdays, irregular meals, and spicy food are a way of life, acid reflux has become an accepted pain. Yet, for many, this daily burn is not harmless — it’s a ticking alarm that demands attention from an experienced GI cancer doctor in Kolkata before it’s too late.
What Exactly Is GERD?
GERD occurs when stomach acid frequently flows back into the food pipe (oesophagus). This acid irritates the lining of the oesophagus, causing the burning pain we call “heartburn.”
Over time, this irritation can lead to inflammation, ulcers, and scarring — and in some cases, dangerous precancerous changes.
While occasional acid reflux is common, persistent reflux lasting more than a few weeks needs attention. It’s not just discomfort — it’s your body’s way of saying something deeper is wrong.
Why Acid Reflux Shouldn’t Be Ignored
In large metropolitan cities (including the City of Joy), acid reflux often becomes a background problem — managed with over-the-counter antacids or ignored until it disrupts sleep.
But here’s an eye-opener: long-term reflux is dangerous.
When stomach acid repeatedly injures the oesophagus, it can cause a condition called Barrett’s oesophagus — a major risk factor for oesophageal cancer.
Ignoring symptoms for even six months can lead to lasting changes in your oesophageal lining. What begins as mild heartburn may progress to chronic inflammation and eventually cellular damage.
GERD vs Heartburn — What’s the Difference?
The table clearly presents the difference between GERD and heartburn. Understanding them matters — because recognising it early can save years of discomfort and serious complications later.
| Aspect | Heartburn | GERD (Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease) |
| Frequency | Occasional (after meals) | Frequent (twice or more a week) |
| Duration | Short-term | Chronic, long-term issue |
| Severity | Mild discomfort | Burning, pain, regurgitation, cough |
| Risk | Rarely serious | Can lead to Barrett’s oesophagus and cancer |
| Treatment | Antacids | Long-term lifestyle + medical therapy |
The Hidden Link Between GERD and Oesophageal Cancer
A (source) confirms a direct link between GERD and oesophageal cancer.
Chronic acid exposure damages the cells lining the oesophagus. Over time, they may transform into abnormal, pre-cancerous cells — a condition known as Barrett’s oesophagus (source)!
Barrett’s oesophagus symptoms can include:
- Persistent heartburn despite medication
- Difficulty swallowing or a feeling of food getting stuck
- Unexplained weight loss
- Chest discomfort that mimics heart problems
If you notice these, consult a GI cancer doctor in kolkata — not out of fear, but out of precaution.
Long-Term Acid Reflux Risks
Unchecked GERD can cause several health issues. These risks develop gradually — often over years of “just acidity.”
Those Health Issues Entail –
- Esophagitis: Painful inflammation of the food pipe
- Ulcers: Open sores leading to bleeding
- Strictures: Narrowing of the oesophagus, causing swallowing difficulty
- Barrett’s oesophagus: A pre-cancerous stage
- Oesophageal cancer: Often detected late, with poor outcomes
Understanding that acid reflux isn’t harmless is the first step toward prevention.
Living with GERD in Kolkata – Triggers You Can’t Ignore
Did you know that our city’s lifestyle habits can unknowingly fuel reflux!
Simple awareness and diet changes can make a world of difference.
Here’s a quick reference:
| Foods to Limit | Safer Choices (Acid Reflux Diet Plan Across India) |
| Fried snacks, pakoras, spicy curries | Steamed vegetables, dal, khichdi |
| Coffee, tea, and carbonated drinks or fizzy drinks | Coconut water, herbal teas |
| Chocolates, mint, onions | Bananas, oats, rice porridge |
| Late-night meals | Early, light dinners |
This Indian style acid reflux diet plan can help reduce symptoms naturally. But persistent reflux still requires proper GERD treatment in Kolkata under medical guidance.
Diagnosis – When to See a Gastroenterologist in Kolkata
If you’ve had reflux for more than two weeks despite medication, or if you notice any of these signs, it’s time to seek help:
- Difficulty or pain while swallowing
- Vomiting blood or black stools
- Unexplained weight loss
- Persistent cough or hoarse voice
- Chest pain that worsens after eating
Dr Sanjoy Mandal, a reliable gastroenterologist in Kolkata, may recommend endoscopy, pH monitoring, or imaging to assess the extent of acid damage and rule out early signs of cancer.
For more insights from the expert, check out his insights.
Remember:
Early detection of oesophageal cancer — early signs — dramatically improves survival rates, sometimes up to 80% when treated in the initial stages – Source.
Treatment Options — What Really Works
Treatment options may include medical and surgical, depending on the condition.
Medical Approach:
- Acid-suppressing medicines (PPIs, H2 blockers)
- Dietary and lifestyle modifications
- Treating underlying infections like H. pylori
- Monitoring for Barrett’s oesophagus
Surgical Approach:
In severe cases, procedures such as fundoplication help reinforce the lower oesophageal sphincter to prevent acid reflux.
Recovery and outcomes depend on how early the condition is diagnosed — another reason why regular check-ups with a GI cancer doctor in Kolkata matter.
The Human Side of Healing
Many inhabitants quietly live with reflux for years — masking it with home remedies or antacids. But every burning night, every skipped meal, every uneasy morning could be your body’s plea for care.
Dr Sanjoy Mandal has seen countless patients walk this path — many who came worried to his clinic but left informed and reassured.
His approach focuses on education, early intervention, and compassion, guiding patients toward the right choices before issues escalate. He believes every person deserves to protect what’s most precious — their health and their family’s peace of mind.
Don’t Wait Until It’s Too Late: Contact Today.
GERD doesn’t become cancer overnight.
It happens quietly, over the years. But awareness, timely diagnosis, and proper medical guidance can stop that journey in its tracks.
If you’ve been battling heartburn, regurgitation, or chest discomfort for weeks, take the next step now. A simple consultation with Dr Sanjoy Mandal, a leading GI cancer doctor in kolkata can give you clarity, comfort, and control over your health.
When it comes to acid reflux, early action isn’t fear — it’s protection.
People Also Ask
Is acid reflux dangerous if left untreated?
Yes. While occasional acidity is common, long-term acid reflux can erode the lining of the food pipe and cause inflammation. Over time, untreated GERD may lead to Barrett’s oesophagus and increase the risk of oesophageal cancer.
If you’ve had heartburn or sour burps for more than two weeks, consult a GI cancer doctor in Kolkata for early evaluation.
What are the early signs of oesophageal cancer?
Early symptoms include persistent heartburn, difficulty swallowing, unexplained weight loss, chest discomfort after meals, and frequent regurgitation. These symptoms often overlap with GERD, which is why early screening can be life-saving.
How do I know if I have GERD or just heartburn?
Heartburn is an occasional burning sensation after certain meals. GERD is when this reflux happens repeatedly — often several times a week — and may be accompanied by cough, sore throat, or disturbed sleep.
Can diet changes really help acid reflux?
Yes. Adopting an India-style acid reflux diet plan — smaller meals, low spice, less caffeine, and early dinners — can significantly reduce symptoms and support long-term control.
When should I see a gastroenterologist in Kolkata?
If reflux persists despite medication, interferes with sleep, or causes swallowing issues, it’s time for medical help. Timely GERD treatment in Kolkata prevents lasting damage and restores digestive balance.