![]() ![]() Then it closes to stop food and acidic stomach juices from flowing back into your esophagus. In normal digestion, your LES opens to allow food into your stomach. Gastroesophageal reflux is when what’s in your stomach backs up into your esophagus. The term “gastroesophageal” refers to the stomach and esophagus. But some people may need medication or surgery. In most cases, you can ease your GERD symptoms through diet and lifestyle changes. Doctors think that some people may have it because of a condition called hiatal hernia. If you have it, you may get heartburn or acid indigestion. This ring is called the lower esophageal sphincter (LES). During your visit, the doctor will examine the lining of your esophagus, stomach and duodenum (the first part of your small intestine) to determine the cause of your digestive symptoms and the appropriate treatment.Gastroesophageal reflux disease, or GERD, is a digestive disorder that affects the ring of muscle between your esophagus and your stomach. After performing a complete medical exam, your gastroenterologist may recommend that you undergo an upper endoscopy to evaluate your symptoms and see if you have suffered any damage to your esophagus, or provide you with the peace of mind that everything is all right. If you experience any of the symptoms above, it’s time to see one of our gastroenterologists. ![]() Heartburn accompanied by nausea or vomiting.Unexplained weight loss or decreased appetite.Acid reflux that interferes with your daily activities or affects your quality of life.Nighttime symptoms that affect your sleep quality.Heartburn episodes that change in frequency or intensity.Heartburn that persists after taking over-the-counter medications.Symptoms that continue for more than two weeks.Here are some indications that it’s time to call a gastroenterologist: Sometimes it’s difficult to know when your symptoms are severe enough that you need to make an appointment with a gastroenterologist, and we understand that. Our gastroenterologists are fellowship-trained and qualified to diagnose GERD and help develop a meet your treatment plan. Untreated GERD can lead to inflammation of the esophagus and cause complications like ulcers, strictures and increased risk of Barrett’s esophagus, which is a precursor to esophageal cancer.Ī gastroenterologist is a physician with specialized training in managing diseases of the gastrointestinal tract (esophagus, stomach, small intestine, colon and rectum, pancreas, gallbladder, bile ducts and liver). GERD is a potentially serious condition, and it will not go away on its own. If you are suffering from chronic acid reflux, a specialist can help. The key to treating your GERD: a board-certified gastroenterologist Studies have linked PPIs to bone fracture, renal failure, heart attack, dementia, Clostridium difficile (or C. PPIs, for example, should not be taken regularly for more than two weeks because of their long-term side effects. While these medications can help provide immediate relief, they’re only intended for occasional use. They attribute their discomfort to something they ate or drank and self-medicate with over-the-counter antacids, H-2 blockers or proton-pump inhibitors (PPI). Over-the-Counter Medications and GERDĪpproximately 7 million Americans have GERD, but most people who have it have not been diagnosed. Heartburn is the most common symptom of GERD, but other symptoms may include coughing, wheezing, chest pain, hoarseness, difficulty swallowing and frequent throat clearing and regurgitation. This allows digestive acid to enter the esophagus and can cause damage over time. In GERD patients, the lower esophageal sphincter – the ring of muscle that closes off the stomach from the esophagus – does not work properly. Chronic acid reflux is known as gastroesophageal reflux disease or GERD. HeartburnĪn occasional episode of heartburn is normal, but if you’re experiencing heartburn several times a week, you’ll need to see a doctor. Acid reflux occurs when stomach acid backs up into your esophagus, resulting in symptoms like chest pain, a burning sensation in your throat and a sour taste in your mouth. ![]() Almost everyone has experienced acid reflux, which is commonly known as heartburn. ![]()
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