Which is worse: acid reflux or bile reflux?
On One Hand: Bile RefluxBile reflux occurs when bile flows backward from the small intestine into the stomach. It can also flow upward into the esophagus. Unlike acid reflux, bile reflux often cannot be treated by changing lifestyle and diet choices. Doctors treat bile reflux with medications or surgery. Bile reflux can also cause stomach irritation called gastritis, which has been linked to the development of stomach cancer.On the Other: Bile and Acid Reflux TogetherWhile bile reflux is harder to treat and has more complications than acid reflux, the combination of the two is the most dangerous to a patient’s health. Acid reflux is the backward flow of gastric acid from the stomach up into the esophagus. Bile and acid reflux can deteriorate the lining of the esophagus and lead to esophageal cancer. The combination can also cause stricture, a narrowing of the esophagus.Bottom LineBile reflux is more dangerous than acid reflux simply because it is harder to treat and can lead to stomach
