Heartburn and weight loss
You may lose weight when you have heartburn when you avoid foods that make your heartburn worse. If you eat less or consume fewer calories, you probably will lose weight. Untreated heartburn can, over time, cause a narrowing (stricture) of the esophagus, which can cause problems with swallowing. You may not be able to eat enough calories to maintain your weight.
Unexpected weight loss that occurs with heartburn or difficulty swallowing may also be a symptom of a more serious condition.
Call your doctor to schedule an appointment if you have lost 5 lb (2 kg) or 5% of your body weight over the past 3 to 6 months without dieting or increasing your exercise level.
| Author: | Jan Nissl, RN, BS | Last Updated: September 6, 2007 |
| Medical Review: | William M. Green, MD - Emergency Medicine H. Michael O'Connor, MD - Emergency Medicine | |
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