Esophogeal screenings are important and the connection gastroesophagel Reflux Disease. So how do you know if you need one of these? Dr. Christina Richards has the signs you may need to be seen by a professional.
How do you know if you have GERD?
Take the Heartburn Quiz
1. I get a burning feeling in the middle of my chest.
2. I often have this feeling after a meal or at night.
3. This burning feeling gets worse when I lie down or bend over.
4. Over-the-counter medicines, such as acid reducers or antacids, help the burning go away.
5. I frequently regurgitate (burp up) my food.
6. There is a bitter or sour taste in the back of my throat.
If you answered YES to one or more of these statements there is a good chance you have GERD.
Why Esophageal Cancer Screenings are important and how they may save your life
A cancer screening is a precautionary test for those who may be more susceptible to certain types of cancer than others. An esophageal cancer screening is recommended for people with specific risk factors. It is also the best way for a physician to detect cancer in the esophagus at early stages of development, when a patient may not otherwise have symptoms.
Who should get screened for esophageal cancer?
There are several risk factors associated with esophageal cancer. However, the most common risk factors include:
– having gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
– having a history of chronic heartburn
– being overweight
– using tobacco
– heavy alcohol use
What is an esophageal cancer screening?
An esophageal cancer screening, or esophagoscopy, is a procedure to look inside the esophagus by using a thin, tube-like instrument with a light and camera lens at the end. A physician will insert the esophagoscope through the mouth and down the throat to check for signs of abnormal tissue. If abnormal tissue is detected, a biopsy of the tissue can confirm if it is cancerous.
Where can you go for esophageal cancer screenings?
If you or a loved one has one or more of these risk factors, especially GERD, it may be time to get tested.
The Heartburn Care Center at Salt Lake Regional Medical Center is offering $99 esophageal cancer screenings. This simple yet beneficial screening can give you peace of mind or may save your life.
For more information, please call 801-746-2885.
Heartburn Care Center
1046 East 100 South
Salt Lake City, UT 84102
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