Acid reflux is a common condition when stomach acid flows back into the esophagus, causing discomfort like heartburn. Many people experience it occasionally, but when acid reflux occurs frequently or becomes more severe, it may indicate a more serious condition known as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).
November is GERD Awareness Month, and here at Eastside Bariatric & General Surgery, surgeon Aliu O. Sanni, MD, and our team want to take a moment to talk about the condition and explain why timely treatment is so important.
Acid reflux happens when the lower esophageal sphincter, a ring of muscle between the esophagus and stomach, fails to close properly after you’ve eaten. This allows stomach acid to escape into your esophagus, causing symptoms like:
Most people experience these symptoms occasionally, and they often resolve quickly without treatment. Simple lifestyle changes like avoiding certain foods, eating smaller meals, or elevating your head while sleeping can help prevent mild cases of acid reflux.
If acid reflux occurs more than twice a week, persists over time, and interferes with your daily activities, it may be classified as GERD. The key difference is the frequency and intensity of symptoms. With GERD, symptoms can be more persistent, leading to potential complications if left untreated.
Some of the warning signs that acid reflux has progressed to GERD include:
Another symptom of GERD includes nighttime reflux, causing sleep disturbances.
Untreated GERD can cause serious complications, such as:
We encourage you to book an appointment at our practice if you have signs of GERD. An early diagnosis can prevent the condition from worsening.
Treatment may include medications like proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) or H2 blockers to reduce stomach acid production. We may also recommend lifestyle modifications, such as:
Surgery is an option, too, if you don’t respond to medication. We can determine if you’re a candidate for a minimally invasive transoral incisionless fundoplication (TIF) procedure.
During GERD Awareness Month, take the opportunity to assess your symptoms and seek our medical advice. Early diagnosis and proper treatment can prevent GERD from causing more significant health issues.
If you suffer from symptoms of GERD, call our office at 201-565-0876 today to schedule an evaluation with Dr. Sanni at our Snellville, Georgia, office, or request an appointment through this website.
