Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) Services

GERD Services

Are you in John’s Creek, GA, and experiencing symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)? At our gastroenterology clinic, we specialize in diagnosing and treating GERD to help you find relief from symptoms and improve your quality of life.

Understanding GERD

GERD is a chronic digestive disorder characterized by the reflux of stomach acid into the esophagus, causing irritation and inflammation of the esophageal lining. Common symptoms of GERD include heartburn, regurgitation, chest pain, difficulty swallowing, and a sour taste in the mouth. If left untreated, GERD can lead to complications such as esophageal ulcers, strictures, and Barrett’s esophagus.

Symptoms of GERD

Symptoms of GERD can vary in severity and may include:

  • Heartburn: A burning sensation in the chest that often worsens after eating or lying down.
  • Regurgitation: The sensation of stomach contents, including acid and food, rising into the throat or mouth.
  • Chest pain: Discomfort or pain in the chest, often mistaken for a heart attack.
  • Difficulty swallowing: A feeling of food sticking in the throat or chest.
  • Sour taste in the mouth: A bitter or acidic taste that may occur after eating or when lying down.

Treatment Options

Treatment for GERD aims to alleviate symptoms, heal esophageal damage, and prevent complications. Treatment options may include lifestyle modifications, such as dietary changes and weight management, medications to reduce stomach acid production or improve esophageal motility, and in severe cases, surgical intervention.

Schedule an Appointment

Don’t let GERD symptoms disrupt your life. Contact our gastroenterology clinic today to schedule an appointment for evaluation and treatment. We are committed to helping you find relief from GERD and improve your digestive health.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

GERD is often caused by the weakening of the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), a muscle that normally prevents stomach acid from flowing back into the esophagus. Other factors that can contribute to GERD include hiatal hernia, obesity, pregnancy, certain medications, and dietary factors.

GERD can be diagnosed based on symptoms and a physical examination. Additional tests, such as endoscopy, esophageal pH monitoring, and imaging studies, may be performed to assess the extent of esophageal damage and rule out other conditions.

Lifestyle modifications are an essential part of managing GERD and may include avoiding trigger foods (such as spicy or acidic foods), eating smaller meals, avoiding lying down after eating, maintaining a healthy weight, quitting smoking, and elevating the head of the bed during sleep.

Medications commonly used to treat GERD include proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), H2 receptor antagonists, and antacids. These medications work by reducing stomach acid production or neutralizing acid in the stomach to alleviate symptoms and promote healing of the esophagus.

If you experience frequent symptoms of GERD, such as heartburn, regurgitation, or difficulty swallowing, it is important to consult with a gastroenterologist for evaluation and management. Our experienced team can provide comprehensive care and develop a personalized treatment plan tailored to your needs.