A tube called the esophagus carries food from the throat to the stomach. Along the way a ring of muscle, the lower esophageal sphincter, opens to allow food to pass. When weakened, this doesn’t close all the way and stomach acids seep back into the esophagus, causing acid reflux.
About one in five Americans suffers symptoms each week. Some people have reflux that damages the lining of the esophagus, but they have no symptoms to alert them that acid injury is occurring.
Signs & Symptoms of Gastroesophageal Reflux
- Bitter taste from bile & stomach acids
- Heartburn (burning sensation below the sternum where your ribs come together)
- Persistent sore throat
- Hoarseness
- Chronic cough
- Asthma
- Heart-like chest pain
- Feeling of a lump in the throat
Causes of Gastroesophageal Reflux
- Large Meals
- Fried, Fatty Foods
- Smoking
- Chocolate
- Alcohol
- Caffeine
- Citrus Fruits & Juices
- Peppermint & Spearmint
- Carbonated beverages
- Ketchup & Mustard
- Vinegar
- Tomato Sauce
- Citrus Fruits & Juices
When To See Doctor about Gastroesophageal Reflux
After 2 weeks ask your doctor to consult a gastroenterologist for additional tests to rule out more serious conditions, including cancer.
Treatment for Gastroesophageal Reflux
- Avoid causes
- Eat smaller & more frequent meals, slowly
- Don’t eat at least 2 hours before bedtime
- Elevate head of bed by 4-10 inches
- Lose weight
- Moderate exercise
- Wear lose fitting clothes
- Quit smoking
- Antacids (liquids)
- Medications, and if this fails, surgery is an option
Tests & Procedures for Gastroesophageal Reflux
- Endoscopy
- Biopsy
- Esophageal manometric studies
- Impedance monitoring
- pH (acid) monitoring
- Surgery
You can trust the highly experienced, board-certified gastroenterologists at Atlantic Digestive Specialists to provide you with personal care and the latest diagnostic and treatment capabilities. Experts in treating GERD, contact us now.
