What can prolonged heart burn do to my body?

Damage to esophagus: Overtime, it causes erosion of the esophagus and can result in a condition called barrett's esophagus which can become cancer (rare). It also causes scarring of the esophagus, damage teeth, worsens asthma. Sinusitis, hoarseness or throat clearing are other complications of heart burn.

Needs evaluation: Heartburn is a symptom and can indicate a number of problems. If reflux is the cause there is risk of esopageal erosions and cancer. If the stomach or small intestine is the source then peptic ulcer diease is a possibility. Ocassional heartburn is generally not a concern. Persistant symptoms, however suggest an underlying problem which may be serious. It absolutely requires further evaluation!