You may remember the Saturday Night Live episode where Ashlee Simpson
bombed. Ashlee, younger sister to teen heartthrob Jessica Simpson, was caught
lip-syncing on the NBC hit show SNL where everything is live and nothing is Memorex.
Daddy Says
Well, the stunning news is that Ashlee suffers from Acid Reflux, as told by
her father, and that is why she was lip-synching. Daddy made the statement that
Ashlee’s voice was too hoarse to sing because of the effects from Acid Reflux.
Though it may seem a bit funny, Acid Reflux is nothing to joke about. The
consequences can be quite severe, and the acid that is regurgitated can cause
devastating effects to the esophagus and yes, vocal chords.
Acid Reflux and Vocalists
Unfortunately, Ashlee Simpson isn’t the first vocalist to attribute painful
and swollen vocal chords to Acid Reflux. Dr. Dana Talley who was a principal
tenor with the Metropolitan Opera notes on the website Reflux1.com that acid
reflux interrupted one of his performances with a call to 911 and a trip to the
emergency room. Ask any professional Vocal trainer or your Physician, they will
tell you- acid reflux can permanently damage the vocal chords.
You’re Not Alone Ashlee
It has been estimated that at least 40 percent of Americans suffer from some
form of heartburn or Acid Reflux every month. However, many people don’t seek
the advice of a physician or trusted health care provider. They assume it is
just minor heartburn, take two Tums, and will feel better in the morning. Acid
reflux is a serious and chronic condition that needs to be evaluated by a
health care professional- medicine may be prescribed and in some severe cases,
surgery is recommended. Acid Reflux is not a condition to be ignored or
avoided.
Don’t worry Ashlee, the embarrassment will be gone tomorrow, but will your
Acid Reflux?