Heartburn and Acid Reflux Services

Heartburn and Acid Reflux Services

Are you in John’s Creek, GA, and suffering from heartburn or acid reflux? These conditions can significantly impact your daily life, but relief is within reach at our gastroenterology clinic. We specialize in diagnosing and treating heartburn and acid reflux to help you find long-lasting relief and improve your quality of life.

Understanding Heartburn and Acid Reflux

Heartburn, also known as acid indigestion or acid reflux, occurs when stomach acid flows back into the esophagus, causing irritation and a burning sensation in the chest or throat. This reflux of stomach acid into the esophagus is a common symptom of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).

Symptoms of Heartburn and Acid Reflux

Symptoms of heartburn and acid reflux may include:

  • Burning sensation in the chest or throat
  • Sour or acidic taste in the mouth
  • Regurgitation of food or liquid
  • Difficulty swallowing
  • Chest pain or discomfort, often mistaken for a heart attack

How to Manage Heartburn and Acid Reflux

Managing heartburn and acid reflux involves a combination of lifestyle modifications, dietary changes, and medications. Lifestyle changes may include:
Avoiding trigger foods and beverages, such as spicy, fatty, or acidic foods, caffeine, and alcohol
Eating smaller, more frequent meals
Avoiding lying down or bending over immediately after eating
Elevating the head of the bed during sleep
Maintaining a healthy weight and avoiding tight-fitting clothing
Quitting smoking, if applicable

Treatment Options

Treatment for heartburn and acid reflux may include over-the-counter or prescription medications that reduce stomach acid production or neutralize acid in the stomach. These medications include antacids, H2 receptor antagonists, and proton pump inhibitors (PPIs). In severe cases or when medications fail to provide relief, surgical interventions such as fundoplication may be considered.

Schedule an Appointment

Don’t let heartburn and acid reflux disrupt your life any longer. Contact our gastroenterology clinic today to schedule an appointment for evaluation and personalized treatment. We are committed to helping you find relief and improve your digestive health.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Heartburn and acid reflux are often caused by a weakened lower esophageal sphincter (LES), which allows stomach acid to flow back into the esophagus. Other factors that can contribute to these conditions include hiatal hernia, obesity, pregnancy, certain medications, and dietary factors.

If you experience frequent heartburn and acid reflux symptoms, it is important to consult with a gastroenterologist for evaluation and management. Chronic symptoms may indicate gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), a more serious condition that requires medical attention.

Untreated heartburn and acid reflux can lead to complications such as esophageal ulcers, strictures (narrowing of the esophagus), Barrett’s esophagus (a precancerous condition), and even esophageal cancer in rare cases. Seeking prompt medical care can help prevent these complications.

In many cases, adopting lifestyle modifications such as dietary changes, weight management, and avoiding trigger factors can help alleviate heartburn and acid reflux symptoms. However, some individuals may require medications or other interventions for symptom control.

Diagnostic tests for heartburn and acid reflux may include upper endoscopy (esophagogastroduodenoscopy or EGD), esophageal pH monitoring, and imaging studies. These tests help assess the extent of esophageal damage and rule out other conditions.