What is GERD?
Gastroesophageal reflux disease or GERD is defined by the Mayo Clinic as “a chronic digestive disease that occurs when stomach acid or, occasionally, bile flows back (refluxes) into your food pipe (esophagus).” When this reflux of acid and bile happens repeatedly and causes heartburn, it is diagnosed as GERD (gastro esophageal reflux disease).
What are GERD Symptoms?
The most common GERD symptoms are acid reflux and heartburn. Although these are the most common symptoms, GERD can present in other ways which do not initially seem like reflux. Your gastroenterologist or GERD specialist may consider other symptoms that could be a manifestation of GERD. Below are a few symptoms that may be caused by GERD:
- Acid Reflux – regurgitation of food or sour liquid
- Heartburn – a burning sensation in your chest
- Chest pain
- Problems with swallowing
- Dry cough
- Sore throat
- Burping
- Bloating
- Hoarseness
- Nausea
- Sinus problems
- Sleep apnea
How is GERD Treated?
The goal in treating GERD is to eliminate the symptoms that cause it. Unfortunately, in many patients, GERD is a chronic relapsing disease. In these cases, long-term maintenance is the key to treatment. Your Gastroenterologist may advise lifestyle changes or medications to treat GERD based on each patient’s individual symptoms.
The most common lifestyle changes recommended for those patients suffering from GERD are:
- Change your diet to avoid foods that trigger heartburn
- Wait 2-3 hours after eating before lying down
- Elevate the head of your bed
- Don’t smoke
- Maintain a healthy weight
If the lifestyle changes don’t eliminate your symptoms then your Gastroenterologist may recommend certain medications. The most common medications used to treat GERD are H2 Blockers and Proton Pump Inhibitors.
If you suffer from any of the GERD symptoms described above it is recommended that you consult a gastroenterologist. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Kenneth Brown at his Plano gastroenterology clinic click on the button below.
Disclaimer: The information presented on this website is not intended to take the place of your personal physician’s advice and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. Discuss this information with your healthcare provider to determine what is right for you. All information is intended for your general knowledge only and is not a substitute for medical advice or treatment for specific medical condition
“Dr. Brown is one of my favorite doctors. He is a fantastic GI doc. He’s so great with his patients. He really takes the time to explain things to them. Help them with a plan of care. He also is interested in natural approaches to treating and healing. He is very knowledgeable about eating healthy in ways to help the body take care of its self. Super smart guy!”
“As a former professional athlete, my physical health has always been my number one priority. Dr. Brown is extremely knowledgeable and answered all my questions in a straight-forward and relaxing manner. I would strongly recommend him to anyone needing a colon cancer screening exam.”
“Great doctor. I was unaware of the complexity of my digestive health and that certain symptoms can be representative of multiple digestive conditions. Appreciate Dr. Brown’s informative approach of educating me on his diagnosis and treatment recommendations. I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend him to anyone needing a GI doctor.”
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