Which of the following is a complication of GERD?

Strictures and ulceration can occur as complications of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) due to the prolonged exposure of the esophageal lining to stomach acid. In GERD, the lower esophageal sphincter does not close properly, allowing acidic gastric contents to flow back into the esophagus. This leads to inflammation and injury known as esophagitis. Over time, chronic inflammation can result in scar tissue formation, which may narrow the esophagus (stricture) and create areas of ulceration due to repeated damage.

Other options, while they may involve gastrointestinal issues, are not direct complications of GERD. For example, diarrhea could be associated with other gastrointestinal conditions or reactions to certain foods but is not a complication of GERD itself. Gastric cancer, while linked to chronic stomach issues, is not a direct result of GERD, although chronic inflammation in the stomach can lead to other malignancies. Pancreatitis is an inflammation of the pancreas and is typically associated with factors like gallstones, chronic and excessive alcohol consumption, or certain medications, rather than GERD.