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1.9K Reviews | 4.7 Star Rating | 20+ years of experience | 72k+ Patients Treated

Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)

At GastroDoxs, we specialize in diagnosing and treating Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) with a comprehensive and patient-centered approach

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Difficulty Swallowing

American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy

Created by Dr. Bharat Pothuri, MD, FACG on Jun 27, 2024

Symptoms

What is GERD?

GERD is a chronic digestive disorder where stomach acid frequently flows back into the esophagus, causing irritation and symptoms such as heartburn, regurgitation, chest pain, and difficulty swallowing.

Common Causes of GERD

Weak Lower Esophageal Sphincter (LES): The LES doesn't close properly, allowing stomach acid to escape.
Hiatal Hernia: Part of the stomach pushes up through the diaphragm.
Dietary Factors: Spicy foods, citrus, chocolate, caffeine, and alcohol can trigger symptoms.
Lifestyle Factors: Obesity, smoking, and pregnancy can increase the risk of GERD.
Medications: Certain medications can weaken the LES or irritate the esophagus.

When to Seek Medical Help?

Seek medical attention if you experience:

Persistent heartburn or acid reflux more than twice a week
Difficulty swallowing or a feeling of food being stuck in the throat
Chronic cough, laryngitis, or asthma symptoms
Unintended weight loss
Severe chest pain, especially if accompanied by shortness of breath

Diagnosis

Our Comprehensive Diagnostic Approach

Detailed Symptom Review:

Discussing your symptoms in detail, including frequency, severity, and triggers.
Identifying associated symptoms like regurgitation, chronic cough, or chest pain.

Medical History Evaluation:

Reviewing your medical history, including any previous treatments for GERD or related conditions.
Assessing lifestyle factors such as diet, smoking, and alcohol consumption.

Advanced Diagnostic Tests:

Endoscopy: Allows us to examine the esophagus and stomach for inflammation, ulcers, or other abnormalities.
pH Monitoring: Measures the acid levels in your esophagus over a 24-hour period.
Esophageal Manometry: Evaluates the function of the esophagus and lower esophageal sphincter (LES).
Barium Swallow: An X-ray exam to observe the swallowing process and detect any abnormalities.

Management

Personalized Treatment Plans For You

Based on your diagnosis, our team will develop a personalized treatment plan tailored to your specific needs. Treatment options may include:

Lifestyle Modifications: Dietary changes, weight management, and avoiding triggers.
Medications: Antacids, H2 blockers, proton pump inhibitors, and other medications to reduce stomach acid production and manage symptoms.
Surgical Interventions: Procedures like fundoplication for severe cases or when medication and lifestyle changes are ineffective.

Why Choose GastroDoxs?

Expert Care: Our gastroenterologists are highly trained and experienced in diagnosing and treating GERD and related conditions.
Comprehensive Approach: We combine advanced diagnostics with personalized treatment plans to ensure the best outcomes for our patients.
Patient-Centered: Your comfort and well-being are our top priorities. We provide compassionate care and support throughout your treatment journey.

Schedule Your Consultation Today!

Don't let GERD disrupt your life. Contact GastroDoxs in Houston, Texas, to schedule a consultation and take the first step towards lasting relief and better digestive health. Visit our website or call our office to make an appointment. Trust us to help you manage your GERD and improve your quality of life.

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45k

We've successfully treated more than 45k patients, helping individuals improve their digestive health and overall well-being through expert, personalized care.

20Y

Years of Experience

With over 20 years of experience, GastroDoxs has been a trusted provider of gastroenterology care, focusing on delivering the best outcomes for patients

About the Author

Dr. Bharat Pothuri is a Board-Certified Gastroenterologist and Hepatologist. With extensive experience in digestive health, he specializes in advanced endoscopic procedures, chronic GI disorder management, and preventive care. Dr. Pothuri is dedicated to providing expert, patient-focused insights to help improve gut health and overall well-being.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) mean in terms of health issues?

Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) can indicate various underlying conditions, including digestive disorders, infections, inflammation, or more serious health concerns requiring medical evaluation.

What are the common symptoms of Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)?

Symptoms may include discomfort, pain, bloating, nausea, changes in bowel habits, or other digestive issues, depending on the underlying cause.

How is Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) diagnosed?

Diagnosis involves a physical examination, patient history review, lab tests, imaging, and sometimes specialized procedures to determine the exact cause.

What treatment options are available for Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)?

Treatment may include medications, dietary modifications, lifestyle changes, hydration, stress management, or surgical intervention based on severity.

How can Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) be prevented?

Maintaining a balanced diet, staying hydrated, managing stress, regular exercise, avoiding known triggers, and routine medical check-ups help prevent Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD).

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