Heartburn and Acid Reflux Services

Many people suffer from heartburn and acid reflux, which can make it difficult to get a good night’s sleep and can also greatly affect one’s quality of life. A visit to a physician in Johns Creek, Georgia, could be of help in dealing with recurring acid reflux. At our heartburn clinic Johns Creek, GA, the medical team will treat your heartburn by determining the root cause and making a treatment plan to ensure your long-term relief from acid reflux.

Patients who have previously endured symptoms such as persistent heartburn, chest pain and the regurgitation of food often come to our clinic. Expert gastroenterologists at our practice know that heartburn can be a symptom of a larger gastrointestinal condition, and it should be treated by specialists. In Johns Creek and surrounding areas, our skilled physicians provide heartburn treatment at our heartburn clinic Suwanee, GA. Our heartburn specialist Suwanee, GA, with a proven track record, will also provide guidance.

It is commonly known as acid indigestion, but heartburn is actually stomach acid flowing back into the esophagus. The irritation to the esophagus lining caused by acid reflux results in the discomforting chest or throat burning. Heartburn is a symptom that can occur in anyone, but people who get it regularly may have a more serious condition known as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).

Normally, a ring of muscle, known as the lower esophageal sphincter, prevents stomach acid from entering the food pipe. In the case of a GERD diagnosis, this sphincter either weakens or malfunctions. The condition often results in increased occurrences of acid reflux, which in turn heightens the risk that the esophagus may be damaged or inflamed. Complications arising from untreated acid reflux can include Barrett’s esophagus, the narrowing of the esophagus or esophagitis. Seeking the opinion of a qualified heartburn doctor Johns Creek, GA can be very beneficial in determining whether your heartburn symptoms are occasional or chronic.

The symptoms of heartburn and acid reflux can differ greatly from one individual to another. However, common features of the two conditions include burning in the chest and pain in the stomach area. The majority of individuals are prone to a sensation of burning in the chest or throat, which is often accompanied by discomfort, especially following meals or in rest positions. A sour taste in the mouth is quite often a symptom, mainly due to stomach contents coming up.

These may include swallowing difficulties and a feeling that food is stuck in the chest, or also throat irritation that persists for a long period. It is natural to be concerned when one experiences heart-type discomfort that could be mistaken for heart-related issues, which may manifest as chest pain. Accurate diagnosis of the disorder is best achieved through a medical examination by a physician who has considerable experience in dealing with such patients in the Suwanee, GA or Johns Creek area.

People who are experiencing heartburn and acid reflux generally get relief through a combination of diet, a change in lifestyle and drugs. Modifying your lifestyle can make a significant difference and is often the first step taken by those who experience these symptoms.

Key foods to be avoided include additives such as MSG, food colourings and other excitotoxins, and any other food that provokes symptoms. Individuals who experience heartburn after eating are likely to have a range of specific food triggers. Foods that can cause heartburn include spicy food, fried meals, fatty foods, citrus fruits and tomatoes, chocolates, and caffeine. Additionally, alcohol may cause heartburn in some people. Having smaller amounts of food more often can ease the load on the stomach and reduce the risk of stomach acid flowing back up the esophagus. After meals, it is advisable to refrain from lying down or doing strenuous tasks such as bending.

Sleeping with the head of the bed raised can be of assistance in preventing acid reflux at night by stopping stomach acid from escaping by means of gravity. People who are overweight suffer from increased abdominal pressure. Reducing this pressure is a goal in the management of hiatus hernia, and wearing loose clothing helps in this regard. People who smoke need to stop smoking as soon as possible because smoking damages the valve that stops stomach acid from coming into the esophagus, and also makes more stomach acid.

Medical therapy may be needed if changes in lifestyle are insufficient. Heartburn and acid reflux can be treated with various drugs, including those that are available in pharmacies and those that are prescribed by doctors. Generally speaking, antacids provide rapid, short-term relief by neutralizing the stomach’s acid. They may be used in cases of mild and infrequent heartburn.

Histamine antagonists lower stomach acid and provide acid neutralization for a longer period than antacids do. Patients requiring more intensive treatment for heartburn symptoms often take proton pump inhibitors. These medications reduce stomach acid. As a result, the damaged esophagus has time to repair itself.

When medication fails to provide relief or when complications arise, an operation could be an option. These exercises aim to strengthen the lower esophageal sphincter, preventing stomach acid reflux. Located in Johns Creek, Georgia, a specialized heartburn clinic analyzes each patient’s heartburn problems and identifies the right treatment.