{"id":824929,"date":"2025-02-06T12:12:11","date_gmt":"2025-02-06T18:12:11","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/newsycanuse.com\/index.php\/2025\/02\/06\/the-common-christmas-health-problem-you-should-never-ignore-as-doctor-warns-it-could-lead-to-cancer\/"},"modified":"2025-02-06T12:12:11","modified_gmt":"2025-02-06T18:12:11","slug":"the-common-christmas-health-problem-you-should-never-ignore-as-doctor-warns-it-could-lead-to-cancer","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/newsycanuse.com\/index.php\/2025\/02\/06\/the-common-christmas-health-problem-you-should-never-ignore-as-doctor-warns-it-could-lead-to-cancer\/","title":{"rendered":"The common Christmas health problem you should never ignore \u2013 as doctor warns it could lead to cancer"},"content":{"rendered":"
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A DOCTOR has warned of a common Christmas health issue that you should get checked out before it’s too late. <\/p>\n

Eating rich food and large portions at Christmas<\/a> time can often result in heartburn and acid reflux<\/a>. <\/p>\n

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Dr Sethi said eating rich food and large portions can often result in heartburn and acid reflux<\/span>Credit: Jam Press\/@doctorsethimd<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
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Chronic heartburn can lead to the development of oesophageal cancer<\/span>Credit: Jam Press\/@doctorsethimd<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

But Dr Saurabh Sethi, a gastroenterologist who graduated from Harvard University, has warned chronic heartburn can lead to the development of oesophageal cancer. <\/p>\n

In a video on his TikTok<\/a> that’s racked up more than 1.5 million views, Dr Sethi revealed he recently treated a patient who had the condition. <\/p>\n

He explained: “Heartburn happens when the lower oesophageal sphincter, which should close after eating, stays open. <\/p>\n

\u201c[This causes] stomach acid reflux back into the food pipe. <\/p>\n

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Read more on heartburn<\/h2>\n<\/div>\n

\u201cOver time, this can lead to a precancerous condition called Barrett’s, which can potentially lead to oesophageal cancer.\u201d<\/p>\n

Barrett’s is a condition where cells in the oesophagus grow abnormally. <\/p>\n

While it’s not common, the NHS<\/a> says bout 7 per cent of people with Barrett’s may develop cancer.<\/p>\n

Dr Sethi suggests for occasional heartburn to try sleeping on the left side of your body and eating dinner at least four hours before going to bed. <\/p>\n

The doctor from California<\/a>, US, also says to eat unsweetened fennel seeds after meals to avoid this pain. <\/p>\n

\u201cIf you have chronic heartburn, consult your doctor,\u201d he adds as a final warning. <\/p>\n

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The signs and symptoms of cancer<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div>\n

\u201cEspecially if you are experiencing difficulty swallowing or a sensation of food getting stuck.\u201d <\/p>\n

With Christmas only two weeks away, it\u2019s easy to stock up on indulgent, rich foods to truly enjoy over the festive season. <\/p>\n

But, of course, this is also the time of year where heartburn is the most prevalent. <\/p>\n

According to the NHS, there are an estimated 13,200 visits to the condition\u2019s advice page during Christmas Day and Boxing<\/a> Day.<\/p>\n

And while Dr Sethi, like many others, treats himself at this time of year, he says there are foods to be mindful of consuming \u2013 and some to avoid altogether. <\/p>\n

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If acid reflux continued, over time, it can develop into Barrett’s<\/span>Credit: Jam Press\/@doctorsethimd<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
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For occasional heartburn try sleeping on the left side of your body<\/span>Credit: Jam Press\/@doctorsethimd<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

He added: \u201cI\u2019m particularly careful of foods that might lead to digestive discomfort, like rich, high-fat dishes, or those with excessive sugar. <\/p>\n

\u201cTo navigate holiday gatherings, I focus on balance. <\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t bring my own food, but I try to enjoy smaller portions and prioritise light, fibre-rich options like salad and roasted vegetables. <\/p>\n

\u201cAlways go for lean protein and ensure to stay hydrated. <\/p>\n

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READ MORE SUN STORIES<\/h2>\n<\/div>\n

\u201cRemind yourself to enjoy everything in moderation.<\/p>\n

\u201cThat way, you get to savour all the great Christmas food, without compromising how you feel \u2013 and avoid heartburn for good.\u201d<\/p>\n

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Check if you have acid reflux <\/h3>\n<\/p>\n
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ACID reflux is when stomach acid rises into the oesophagus. <\/p>\n

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It can be caused by many factors, including eating large meals, drinking alcohol or coffee, smoking<\/a>, and taking certain medications. <\/p>\n

The main symptoms are: <\/p>\n