Heartburn Services

Heartburn Services

Are you in John’s Creek, GA, and experiencing heartburn? Don’t let this discomfort disrupt your life. At our gastroenterology clinic, we specialize in diagnosing and treating heartburn to help you find relief and improve your quality of life.

Understanding Heartburn

Heartburn, also known as acid indigestion or acid reflux, is a common symptom characterized by a burning sensation in the chest or throat. It occurs when stomach acid flows back into the esophagus, causing irritation and inflammation of the esophageal lining. Heartburn can be triggered by various factors, including certain foods, beverages, medications, and lifestyle habits.

Symptoms of Heartburn

Symptoms of heartburn 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

Managing heartburn involves adopting lifestyle modifications and, in some cases, using medications to alleviate symptoms and prevent complications. 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 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 interfere with your daily life. Contact our gastroenterology clinic today to schedule an appointment for evaluation and personalized treatment. We are dedicated to helping you find relief from heartburn and improve your digestive health.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Heartburn is often caused by the reflux of stomach acid into the esophagus due to a weakened lower esophageal sphincter (LES). Other factors that can contribute to heartburn include hiatal hernia, obesity, pregnancy, certain medications, and dietary factors.

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

Untreated heartburn 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.

Diagnostic tests for heartburn 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.

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