What is GERD?
High-Quality Treatment for Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a condition in which stomach acid flows back into the esophagus (the tube that connects the mouth to the stomach). Frequent acid reflux can result in a number of symptoms as well as irritation of the lining of the esophagus.
Acid reflux occurs when the valve at the end of the esophagus called the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) doesn’t always close properly, and a backwash of acid then flows back up through the esophagus. A hiatal hernia, whereby the top of the stomach extends above the diaphragm into the chest cavity, worsens the integrity of the gastroesophageal junction (GE junction) and increases GERD symptoms.
Common symptoms of GERD include:
- Heartburn.
- Chest pain.
- Sore throat.
- Regurgitation.
- Chronic cough.
- Sour taste in the mouth.
- Hoarseness.
- Disrupted sleep.
It’s also important to note that for some people GERD is “silent” without symptoms, but the condition can still present with complications.
What are GERD “alarm” symptoms?
- Trouble swallowing or food getting stuck
- Painful swallowing
- Weight loss
- Anemia
- Bleeding (such as vomiting blood)
If you have alarm symptoms, it is very important to see an SDG provider as soon as possible for evaluation and endoscopy.
How is GERD Diagnosed?
If you are experiencing GERD symptoms, be sure to bring this up with your doctor. He or she will be able to diagnose GERD based on a history and physical exam. If your GERD symptoms are persistent or not responding well to initial management, your SDG provider can better assist in management. An upper endoscopy and other testing may be needed to assess the severity of GERD, manage symptoms, and screen for and treat GERD complications.
What are GERD Complications?
- Esophagitis (inflammation of the esophagus) – this will require more aggressive medical therapy.
- Stricture (narrowing) of the esophagus – dilation of the esophagus can be performed during an upper endoscopy to improve swallowing.
- Barrett’s esophagus – this is a precancerous condition that requires surveillance endoscopies to reduce the risk of esophageal cancer.
- Eosinophilic esophagitis.
I felt heard. I truly appreciated Dr. Ende's bedside manner and how he really took the time to listen to my whole health picture. It meant a lot to me.
Read All Reviews
Peter was very easy to talk to and he indicated that he understood my issues. He provided an expected solution. He was very efficient.
Read All Reviews
Treatment Options for GERD
There are many different treatment options for GERD, depending on the severity of your symptoms. These may include:
Diet and Lifestyle Changes
Your doctor may suggest certain changes to help control your GERD symptoms such as eating smaller servings of food, eating slowly and avoiding certain foods that may trigger GERD such as caffeine, alcohol and fatty foods. Stopping smoking and staying at a healthy weight can also be helpful in managing symptoms.
Medical Therapy
There are a number of over the counter (OTC) and prescription products and medications that can help reduce GERD symptoms and complications. OTC antacids that buffer stomach acid (such as TUMS and Gaviscon) can provide quick relief. Medications, including H-2-receptor blockers (such as famotidine) and proton pump inhibitors (such as omeprazole), provide more sustained symptom relief, and may be necessary to heal esophagitis and prevent GERD complications. All of these options are safe, and the medical regimen will be customized by your SDG provider.
Surgery
The vast majority of patients with GERD can be managed well and safely with dietary and lifestyle changes coupled with medical management. Occasionally, for individuals who do not respond to these first line therapeutic options, surgical intervention may be considered to physically reduce acid reflux. But these procedures are also associated with potential complications. Surgical procedures do not decrease the risk for esophageal cancer in patients with Barrett’s esophagus.
Tips for Preventing GERD Symptoms
There are some steps that can be taken to prevent the frequent heartburn that occurs along with GERD. These include the following lifestyle changes for a more comfortable you:
- Avoid eating 2-3 hours before bed.
- Prop up your head with a pillow while you sleep.
- Avoid taking NSAIDs such as aspirin, ibuprofen or naproxen. Take acetaminophen instead.
- Keep stress levels down.
- Avoid trigger foods such as citrus fruits, chocolate, peppermint, tomato products, garlic, onions and spicy or fatty foods.
GERD FAQs
What kind of doctor treats acid reflux?
If I have chronic acid reflux, when should I be referred to a gastroenterologist?
Am I at risk of esophageal cancer?
Is surgery an option to treat GERD?
Should I consider testing for Barrett's esophagus?
What tests are done to confirm or rule out GERD?
What are the risks and benefits of surgery for GERD?
Your South Denver GI Team
At South Denver GI, our team of physicians and advanced practice providers have the expertise to provide you with outstanding care. If you would like to learn more about GERD or need to schedule an appointment at our office, contact us today!
View All Our Providers
Contact Us Today
If you or your child is experiencing GERD symptoms, do not hesitate to contact South Denver GI today to schedule an appointment. Our team of professionals aims to provide each of our patients with effective and prompt treatment to help you return to feeling your best.
Contact Us
Request Appointment
Click on the Schedule Appointment button to schedule an appointment with your South Denver GI provider online. If you do not wish to use our convenient online scheduling tool, please fill out the form below and our team will contact you shortly.