What happens if you don't treat acid reflux?

Nothing to cancer: In most people with mild or intermittent disease no treatment doesn't really cause any future problems. But in some people with more severe or persistent reflux you can develop scarring and the condition called barrett's esophagus. Also spasm can be more more of a problem. This would show up as difficulty in swallowing and food getting stuck. Barrett's esophagus can put you at high risk of developing esophageal cancer.