Bile reflux disease is the seepage of the digestive liquid from your intestines back up into your stomach. Because of this, it may be called gastritis. It may reach up to your esophagus and can have effects similar to acid reflux, which is more common. Bile reflux, however, is a more serious problem because it can damage your stomach and esophagus by causing inflammation. The disease also can make you more susceptible to getting esophageal cancer. Your doctor may recommend surgery or medications to deal with bile reflux.
Weight Loss
Because bile reflux disease can hurt your stomach and esophagus, it can make it more difficult for you to eat. This can lead to unintentional weight loss. The disease also may make it more difficult for your digestive system to properly use the food you eat, which also can result in losing weight.
Pain
Bile flowing the wrong way—up into your stomach from your small intestines rather than down into your intestines—can induce severe pain. This pain typically occurs in the upper portion of your abdominal region. This pain can feel like a burning sensation, according to the Mayo Clinic. It may be accompanied by frequent, severe heartburn. The burning feeling in your throat and chest may be accompanied by a sour taste in the mouth.
Nausea
Bile reflux disease may upset your stomach. You may feel queasy, and you may vomit. The Mayo Clinic reports that if you throw up, your vomit may contain bile. Bile, when vomited, may appear as yellow-green in color. It may leave a particularly bad taste in your mouth.
Hoarseness
Not everyone who has bile reflux disease will get all symptoms, including hoarseness. This symptom may make your throat feel scratchy and it may be difficult to talk normally. It may be accompanied by—or separate from—a cough. The Mayo Clinic recommends seeing your physician if you get these or other symptoms of bile reflux disease. If you already suffer from GERD or gastroesophageal reflux disease, but your medications are not effective, you also may want to check with your doctor.
About this Author
Carole Anne Tomlinson has been a registered nurse working in a variety of medical environments for more than 25 years. She now serves as the nursing supervisor for a chemical dependency facility. She has also written numerous articles for a variety of websites.
