Latest news with #WendiLeBrett
Time of India
01-07-2025
- Health
- Time of India
Warning! This common digestive issue could signal a hidden cancer risk; doctors explain when to act
Oesophageal cancer, often stealthy and lethal, ranks among the top ten cancers globally. Early symptoms are easily mistaken for common digestive issues, leading to late diagnoses and reduced survival rates. Chronic acid reflux, or GERD, is a significant risk factor, potentially causing Barrett's oesophagus, a precursor to cancer. Oesophageal cancer ranks as the tenth most common cancer worldwide and remains one of the most lethal due to its stealthy progression and low survival rates. Often undetected until it reaches advanced stages, this cancer affects the oesophagus, the muscular tube that connects the throat to the stomach. One of the core challenges lies in its early presentation: symptoms are either minimal or mistaken for common digestive issues, allowing the disease to progress unnoticed. According to the Cleveland Clinic, early-stage oesophageal cancer typically does not cause significant symptoms, resulting in delayed diagnosis and reduced treatment options. A study published in 2017 highlighted that nearly 90 per cent of patients diagnosed with this cancer do not survive beyond a decade, emphasising the need for better awareness and early detection. The link between chronic acid reflux, or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), and oesophageal cancer is becoming more evident. As ongoing research sheds light on subtle warning signs, medical experts stress the importance of not ignoring recurring digestive symptoms. What is oesophageal cancer? Oesophageal cancer originates in the inner lining of the oesophagus. There are two main types: adenocarcinoma, more common in Western countries and typically associated with chronic acid reflux and obesity, and squamous cell carcinoma, which is more prevalent globally and often linked to smoking and alcohol use. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Free P2,000 GCash eGift UnionBank Credit Card Apply Now Undo Both types interfere with the oesophagus's ability to carry food and liquids from the throat to the stomach. The cancer tends to develop slowly but progresses aggressively once symptoms become apparent. Unfortunately, by the time a diagnosis is made, the disease often has spread to nearby tissues or organs. The role of chronic acid reflux in cancer development Gastroesophageal reflux disease, or GERD, occurs when stomach acid flows back into the oesophagus, irritating its lining. While many individuals experience occasional acid reflux, persistent symptoms may indicate chronic GERD. The Cleveland Clinic notes that long-term exposure to stomach acid can lead to inflammation, cellular damage, and eventually a condition called Barrett's oesophagus. Barrett's oesophagus is characterised by abnormal changes in the oesophageal lining and is considered a precursor to oesophageal adenocarcinoma. Dr. Wendi LeBrett, a gastroenterology expert, has drawn attention to the subtle and often overlooked symptoms of acid reflux that may signal a deeper issue. She states that although heartburn is a common sign, not all individuals with GERD experience this symptom. In fact, as many as one in three people with acid reflux may have no noticeable heartburn at all. Unusual warning signs: What to watch for According to recent findings shared by Dr. LeBrett, several lesser-known symptoms could point to chronic acid reflux and potentially early oesophageal cancer. These include: Persistent nighttime coughing caused by acid entering the respiratory tract Breathing difficulties linked to airway irritation Worsening asthma symptoms Difficulty swallowing, especially with dry or solid foods Unexpected dental issues, including yellowing teeth, cracks, and enamel erosion These symptoms are frequently dismissed as isolated issues. However, recurring patterns—especially when accompanied by typical digestive discomfort—warrant medical evaluation. The risk of ignoring acid reflux Chronic acid reflux is not just an inconvenience. The Cleveland Clinic emphasises that repeated acid exposure can create lasting damage in the oesophagus, particularly if untreated. Long-term inflammation can lead to cellular changes that increase cancer risk. Barrett's oesophagus, for instance, is often silent but significantly heightens the chance of developing oesophageal cancer over time. Healthcare providers recommend not only treating GERD symptoms but also monitoring for potential complications. This includes routine screenings for patients with longstanding reflux, especially those over 50, those with obesity, or a history of smoking. Importance of early detection Due to the asymptomatic nature of early-stage oesophageal cancer, many patients are only diagnosed when the cancer is already advanced. At this point, treatment options are limited, and outcomes tend to be poor. Data published in the World Journal of Gastroenterology reinforces that five-year survival rates drop drastically as the disease progresses beyond the oesophagus. The importance of early detection is further underscored by the benefits of timely intervention. If identified early, oesophageal cancer can be managed with less invasive procedures, increasing survival chances. Endoscopic therapies and surgical resection, when performed before metastasis, can significantly improve outcomes. Why dental visits matter in oesophageal cancer Dentists may play a surprising role in early detection. Acid reflux can damage the teeth through enamel erosion, a condition often spotted during routine dental check-ups. Yellowing, increased sensitivity, and cracking may not seem connected to cancer risk, but could be early clues pointing to chronic acid reflux. When such signs are combined with other symptoms, they can prompt timely medical referrals and further testing. What experts recommend According to The Economic Times report, medical professionals emphasise vigilance when it comes to persistent digestive symptoms. Individuals experiencing chronic heartburn, cough, or swallowing difficulties should consult a physician for proper assessment. In some cases, an upper endoscopy may be recommended to visualise the oesophagus and detect abnormal changes. The American Gastroenterological Association also advises patients with known risk factors—such as obesity, male gender, smoking, and a family history of oesophageal cancer—to undergo regular screenings, especially if GERD symptoms persist beyond a few weeks despite treatment. Get the latest lifestyle updates on Times of India, along with Doctor's Day 2025 , messages and quotes!
Economic Times
30-06-2025
- Health
- Economic Times
Silent symptom of cancer that millions live with, without realising. When should you visit doctor?
A common condition like acid reflux is often dismissed as harmless, but doctors are warning that persistent symptoms could point to esophageal cancer—a disease known for its subtle early signs and high mortality rate. Experts highlight that not everyone with acid reflux experiences typical heartburn. Instead, symptoms like chronic coughing, breathing difficulties, trouble swallowing, and even dental issues could be signs of something more serious. Tired of too many ads? Remove Ads Common Condition That Could Signal More Tired of too many ads? Remove Ads When to Seek Medical Advice Esophageal cancer, although not among the most widely recognized forms of cancer, remains one of the deadliest. Ranked as the 10th most common cancer worldwide, its threat lies in its subtlety. Often, individuals may not notice any obvious symptoms until the disease has significantly progressed, making early detection difficult and survival rates fact, as per Unilad, a 2017 study revealed that nearly 90% of those diagnosed with esophageal cancer do not survive beyond a cancer begins in the lining of the esophagus, the muscular tube that connects the throat to the stomach. According to the Cleveland Clinic, tumors in this area tend not to show noticeable signs early on. Once symptoms do appear, the cancer is often in an advanced stage, complicating treatment reflux disease (GERD), or chronic acid reflux, is widespread and typically viewed as manageable. However, experts are warning that persistent symptoms could mask something more serious. While occasional acid reflux is a common experience — particularly after heavy meals or lying down — chronic episodes may contribute to esophageal damage and raise cancer a widely viewed social media video, Dr. Wendi LeBrett outlined several symptoms associated with chronic acid reflux that could potentially be linked to esophageal cancer. She explained that although many with acid reflux experience heartburn — a burning sensation in the chest — a significant portion, around one in three, may not display these typical these individuals may suffer from persistent nighttime coughing, breathing issues due to acid irritating the airways, or even worsening asthma. Difficulty swallowing and unexplained dental issues, such as yellowing teeth, cracks, and increased sensitivity, may also suggest prolonged exposure to stomach Cleveland Clinic stresses that acid reflux, particularly when it becomes chronic, can cause inflammation and irritation in the esophagus. While these effects are often dismissed as minor discomforts, they can cause lasting damage over professionals advise that anyone experiencing ongoing digestive symptoms — especially those with unexplained coughing, difficulty breathing, or trouble swallowing — should consult a healthcare provider. Dentists may also detect early signs through acid-related dental damage, making routine checkups esophageal cancer often lacks clear early indicators, understanding the potential connections between persistent acid reflux and cancer is critical. Timely medical intervention could make a significant difference in outcomes.
Time of India
30-06-2025
- Health
- Time of India
Silent symptom of cancer that millions live with, without realising. When should you visit doctor?
Common Condition That Could Signal More When to Seek Medical Advice Esophageal cancer, although not among the most widely recognized forms of cancer, remains one of the deadliest. Ranked as the 10th most common cancer worldwide, its threat lies in its subtlety. Often, individuals may not notice any obvious symptoms until the disease has significantly progressed, making early detection difficult and survival rates fact, as per Unilad, a 2017 study revealed that nearly 90% of those diagnosed with esophageal cancer do not survive beyond a cancer begins in the lining of the esophagus, the muscular tube that connects the throat to the stomach. According to the Cleveland Clinic, tumors in this area tend not to show noticeable signs early on. Once symptoms do appear, the cancer is often in an advanced stage, complicating treatment reflux disease (GERD), or chronic acid reflux, is widespread and typically viewed as manageable. However, experts are warning that persistent symptoms could mask something more serious. While occasional acid reflux is a common experience — particularly after heavy meals or lying down — chronic episodes may contribute to esophageal damage and raise cancer a widely viewed social media video, Dr. Wendi LeBrett outlined several symptoms associated with chronic acid reflux that could potentially be linked to esophageal cancer. She explained that although many with acid reflux experience heartburn — a burning sensation in the chest — a significant portion, around one in three, may not display these typical these individuals may suffer from persistent nighttime coughing, breathing issues due to acid irritating the airways, or even worsening asthma. Difficulty swallowing and unexplained dental issues, such as yellowing teeth, cracks, and increased sensitivity, may also suggest prolonged exposure to stomach Cleveland Clinic stresses that acid reflux, particularly when it becomes chronic, can cause inflammation and irritation in the esophagus. While these effects are often dismissed as minor discomforts, they can cause lasting damage over professionals advise that anyone experiencing ongoing digestive symptoms — especially those with unexplained coughing, difficulty breathing, or trouble swallowing — should consult a healthcare provider. Dentists may also detect early signs through acid-related dental damage, making routine checkups esophageal cancer often lacks clear early indicators, understanding the potential connections between persistent acid reflux and cancer is critical. Timely medical intervention could make a significant difference in outcomes.
Time of India
30-06-2025
- Health
- Time of India
US doctor reveals the BEST exercise to reverse fatty liver
Dr. Wendi LeBrett highlights weight-bearing exercises as crucial for preventing and improving fatty liver disease, a condition affecting millions. Prioritizing muscle building over cardio helps combat insulin resistance, a key factor in the disease's development. Exercises like walking, squats, and lunges, combined with a balanced diet low in refined sugars, are recommended. Fatty liver disease is a growing health concern, affecting millions of people across the globe. One of the most common types is metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD), formerly known as nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Linked to poor diet, obesity, and sedentary lifestyle, this condition can lead to liver inflammation, scarring, and even cirrhosis if left untreated. Dr. Wendi LeBrett, a double-board-certified gastroenterologist and internal medicine physician based in California, has now shared an exercise that can help prevent and even improve fatty liver disease. Before we dive into that, let's take a look at fatty liver disease and its symptoms. What is fatty liver? The liver is the largest organ in the body, which helps the body to digest food, store energy, and remove toxins. Fatty liver disease is a condition where excess fat accumulates in the liver, impairing its function. There are two main types: Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD), aka Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) Alcoholic fatty liver disease, also called alcoholic steatohepatitis What are the symptoms of fatty liver disease Fatty liver is often called a 'silent' disease because it may present no symptoms in its early stages. You probably will not know you have it, unless it's diagnosed during tests carried out for another reason. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like These Are The Most Beautiful Women In The World Undo When the disease progresses, the following symptoms may appear. a dull or aching pain in the top right of the tummy (over the lower right side of the ribs) fatigue unexplained weight loss weakness What is the best exercise for fatty liver disease Dr. LeBrett has emphasized the importance of incorporating exercise into one's routine to improve and prevent certain conditions. 'One in four Americans will have fatty liver, and insulin resistance is a key driver in the development of non-alcoholic fatty liver,' the gastroenterologist said in a video shared on Instagram. She also emphasized the importance of controlling insulin resistance through exercise. 'Building muscle mass is one of the best ways to reduce insulin resistance and should be the priority at the gym with anyone with or at risk of fatty liver,' she said. When people think of exercise, especially as weight gain and obesity are linked to fatty liver disease, they jump on cardio. While cardio is beneficial in losing weight, the doctor emphasizes that building muscles is even more important. For that, she recommends weight-bearing exercises. 'Prioritizing weight-bearing exercise over cardio at the gym because increasing muscle mass is one of the best ways to prevent and improve fatty liver,' the doctor suggested. These exercises include walking, running, jumping, dancing, and using weights or resistance bands to perform exercises like squats, lunges, and push-ups. Matthew Perry Death Case: Doctor Mark Chavez Pleads Guilty Along with exercise, making some lifestyle changes, such as focusing on a balanced diet , can also help to improve and even reverse fatty liver disease. A balanced diet low in refined sugars and processed carbohydrates is ideal. Regular monitoring by a healthcare provider is essential to track progress and prevent complications.
Hindustan Times
12-06-2025
- Health
- Hindustan Times
Gastroenterologist explains how fibre can make your constipation worse if you don't follow this key step
Fibre is often a go-to for many people to treat their constipation. But did you know that consuming fibre can go wrong for you if you don't follow an important step? Also Read | Woman who dropped 90 kilos, shares 3 mistakes that slowed down her weight loss: 'Not focusing on nutrition' According to a gastroenterologist, Dr Wendi LeBrett, MD (gastroenterology), fibre can become a concrete block in your stomach if you don't drink enough water with it. In an Instagram video posted on June 6, Dr Wendi explained how fibre harms you more if you don't consume it the right way. In the video, Dr Wendi showed a glass filled with psyllium fibre and demonstrated that when there is not enough water, it turns into a hard, concrete-like substance. She did this by overturning the glass of psyllium and showing that it didn't move even a smidge inside the glass. A post shared by Dr. Wendi (@socalgastrodoc) According to the gastroenterologist, psyllium fibre is her favourite way to treat constipation. But, she cautioned that if you don't take enough water with it, it forms this concrete-like substance in your gut and just makes your constipation worse. She explained, 'Fibre supplementation is one of the best ways to treat constipation, but often people experience bloating, gas, and constipation - not drinking enough water is often the culprit.' According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), dietary fibre interacts with water by means of polar and hydrophobic interactions, hydrogen bonding and enclosure. The results of these interactions vary with the flexibility of the fibre surface. So, what happens when you consume dietary fibre that is soluble? Per the Mayo Clinic, soluble fibre, which dissolves in water, forms a gel-like material in the stomach that slows down digestion. Per a report by Johns Hopkins Medicine, this gel also acts as a natural stool softener, making bowel movements easier and more comfortable to pass. Meanwhile, soluble fibre is found in oats, peas, beans, apples, bananas, avocados, citrus fruits, carrots, barley and psyllium. It can help lower cholesterol and blood sugar. Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition.
