It’s no secret that acid reflux and GERD can be frustrating, painful conditions. If you’re struggling with this life-altering disease, then you know just how debilitating it can be. And if you’ve been dealing with symptoms for an extended period without relief, then prevention is likely your top priority right now. In Georgia, you can find top-class GERD specialists you may target for assistance. What you need is to target the best GERD/reflux specialist in Buckhead. Before we jump into the solutions to prevent GERD and acid reflux, including surgery, we must first understand what these conditions are all about.
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What is GERD or Acid Reflux?
GERD is short for Gastro-Esophageal Reflux Disease. It occurs when the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), or valve, which connects your stomach to your esophagus, doesn’t close correctly, allowing acid and other contents of the stomach to enter the esophagus. It can lead to inflammation in the esophagus or cause damage to its lining.
GERD/reflux symptoms are typically caused by the continued presence of food that has turned into stomach bile in your esophagus. Still, they can also happen when there’s too much acid production in your stomach, according to Medline Plus. The pain or discomfort associated with
these conditions are known as heartburn or acid reflux.
Signs and Symptoms of GERD/Acid Reflux
The following signs and symptoms characterize GERD and acid reflux:
- Burning sensation in your chest or throat, especially after consuming a meal
- Sore throat
- Discomfort when swallowing
- Pain during intercourse due to lack of lubrication at the vaginal opening
- Throat clearing
- Hoarse voice
- Chronic cough and sore throat
- Increased mucus in your throat or increased phlegm when you wake up in the morning
- Regurgitation of food
What Are the Treatment Options for Acid Reflux?
GERD/acid reflux disease can be treated with dietary changes and medication. Surgery for GERD is an option if these treatments don’t work. Some dietary changes include avoiding alcohol and caffeine, eating less food or drinking liquids during mealtime, and chewing gum between meals. Medicines that are sometimes prescribed to treat heartburn include antacids, H2 blockers, and proton pump inhibitors. Surgery for GERD is an option if these treatments don’t work.
What Causes Acid Reflux or GERD?
Acid reflux occurs when the valve between your stomach and esophagus doesn’t close completely, allowing acid from your stomach to move up into your esophagus.
GERD occurs when the lining of your esophagus becomes irritated because it’s exposed to stomach acid and digestive juices, and it becomes inflamed. It is called reflux esophagitis.
How Can I Prevent GERD/Acid Reflux?
Some of the most effective ways to prevent GERD or acid reflux are maintaining a healthy weight, avoiding foods that irritate your stomach, and eating smaller meals. You can also reduce heartburn by not eating within 3 hours of going to bed, raising the head of your bed or sleeping on an incline, not smoking, and avoiding alcohol.
If you’re struggling with GERD or acid reflux, it’s essential to understand that this is a serious disease. You may be wondering what can help relieve your symptoms and prevent them from happening again in the future. Luckily, there are plenty of treatment options available for these conditions. Some treatments include dietary changes, but most importantly is seeing a specialist.