The harms of bile reflux
The harms of bile reflux mainly include gastrointestinal discomfort, complications, and increased risk of cancer.
1. Gastrointestinal Discomfort
Bile reflux can lead to bile reflux gastritis, causing stomach pain, bloating, frequent belching, nausea, vomiting, acid regurgitation, and heartburn, resulting in gastrointestinal discomfort. Prolonged poor gastrointestinal function may affect appetite, leading to malnutrition and weakened immunity.
2. Complications
If bile reflux gastritis recurs frequently or fails to heal, the gastrointestinal mucosa is continually irritated, which may easily cause gastrointestinal bleeding, presenting as blood in stool, black stools, or vomiting blood, and could even lead to hemorrhagic shock. Other complications include acute peritonitis and gastric perforation.
3. Increased Risk of Cancer
Persistent irritation of the gastric mucosa by refluxed bile causes recurrent gastrointestinal conditions such as gastritis. When the body's resistance is low, there may be a risk of malignant transformation, significantly increasing the likelihood of cancer. It is advisable to maintain a light diet, avoid spicy and irritating foods, and refrain from overeating.