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Acid Reflux (GERD)

What Is Acid Reflux?

Acid reflux occurs when stomach acid flows back into the esophagus, the tube connecting your mouth and stomach. This backflow can irritate the lining of the esophagus, leading to discomfort commonly known as heartburn. Acid reflux is usually mild and occurs occasionally, typically after a meal.

What is GERD?

Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) is a more severe and chronic form of acid reflux. When acid reflux occurs more than twice a week, it may be diagnosed as GERD, which requires medical attention to prevent complications.

Symptoms of Acid Reflux

The symptoms of acid reflux and GERD can vary but often include:

Heartburn: A burning sensation in the chest, often after eating or when lying down.

Regurgitation: Sour or bitter-tasting acid backing up into the mouth or throat.

Nausea or Bloating: A sensation of fullness or discomfort, especially after eating.

Belching: Frequent burping, often accompanied by a sour or bitter taste.

Causes and Risk Factors

Several factors contribute to acid reflux and GERD. Understanding these can help with managing and reducing symptoms:

Diet: Certain foods like fatty, spicy, or acidic meals can trigger reflux. Beverages such as alcohol, caffeine, and carbonated drinks are common culprits that can worsen symptoms.

Lifestyle: Habits like smoking, overeating, and lying down right after meals can exacerbate acid reflux. Simple lifestyle changes can reduce the frequency of symptoms.

Obesity: Excess weight puts pressure on the abdomen, which can increase the likelihood of acid reflux and GERD. Losing weight can help alleviate symptoms.

Medications: Certain medications, such as NSAIDs or blood pressure medications, can relax the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), making it easier for stomach acid to rise and cause discomfort.

Diagnosing Acid Reflux and GERD

Diagnosing acid reflux and GERD usually begins with a discussion of symptoms. Your healthcare provider may recommend tests such as:

Endoscopy: A procedure that uses a flexible tube with a camera to examine the esophagus and stomach for signs of damage or inflammation.

pH Monitoring: This test measures acid levels in the esophagus over a 24-hour period to determine the frequency and severity of reflux episodes.

Barium Swallow: X-ray imaging that tracks the movement of barium through the digestive tract to identify any abnormalities.

Treatments for Acid Reflux and GERD

While lifestyle changes and medications are often the first line of treatment for acid reflux and GERD, more severe cases may require surgical intervention. Texas Advanced Surgical & Bariatrics offers a range of treatment options, including:

Lifestyle Changes: Simple adjustments such as weight loss, eating smaller meals, and avoiding trigger foods can significantly reduce acid reflux.

Medications: Over-the-counter antacids, H2 blockers, and proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) can reduce the production of stomach acid and provide relief.

Surgery: For patients with severe GERD who do not respond to medication, laparoscopic anti-reflux surgery, such as fundoplication, may be recommended. This procedure involves wrapping the top of the stomach around the lower esophagus to strengthen the LES and prevent acid reflux.

What Happens if Left Untreated?

If left untreated, acid reflux and GERD can lead to complications such as:

Esophagitis: Chronic inflammation of the esophagus can lead to pain, ulcers, and difficulty swallowing.

Esophageal Strictures: Over time, scar tissue may form in the esophagus, causing it to narrow and make swallowing difficult.

Barrett’s Esophagus: Chronic acid exposure can cause changes to the lining of the esophagus, increasing the risk of esophageal cancer.

Schedule a Consultation

To learn more about how Texas Advanced Surgical & Bariatrics can help you manage acid reflux and GERD, schedule a consultation with our experienced team today. We’ll work with you to develop a personalized treatment plan that meets your needs.

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