Acid, particularly high levels of acid in the body or frequent exposure to acid, can cause several diseases, primarily affecting the digestive system.
Diseases Caused by Acid
The following diseases are often associated with high acidity:
- Ulcers: High acidity can irritate and erode the lining of the stomach and intestines, leading to painful sores called ulcers.
- Gastro-Esophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): This occurs when stomach acid frequently flows back into the esophagus, the tube connecting your mouth and stomach.
- Esophagitis: This is inflammation of the esophagus, often caused by acid reflux. Prolonged exposure to acid can damage the esophageal lining.
- Barrett's Esophagus: A serious complication of GERD, where the normal lining of the esophagus is replaced by tissue similar to the intestinal lining. This condition increases the risk of esophageal cancer.
These conditions are primarily linked to the damaging effects of stomach acid when it comes into contact with sensitive tissues. Other diseases can be exacerbated or influenced by acid imbalances in the body, but the ones listed above are directly caused by acid exposure.
