Acid reflux is a common condition that affects the gastrointestinal health of an estimated 60 million Americans. If you have acid reflux that’s getting worse or isn’t manageable with drugstore medicines, you can get the help you need at Gastro Center of Maryland.
Our board-certified gastroenterologists offer the latest technologies, including Bravo® pH testing to evaluate the flow of stomach acids.
They also provide personalized care plans to treat the root cause of acid reflux and prevent ongoing complications that can put your gastrointestinal health at risk.
Acid reflux describes the backflow of acids from the stomach into the esophagus and mouth. Typically, the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) controls the flow of acids but when the muscular valve isn’t working properly, acid reflux can become an acute or chronic problem.
The LES opens to let food and liquids pass then closes to keep acids in the stomach. If the muscle becomes weak because of age, pregnancy, obesity, or smoking, liquids can travel back up into the esophagus.
A hiatal hernia can also play a role in acid reflux symptoms such as:
You might have occasional acid reflux after eating spicy or fatty foods, lying down after eating, or drinking alcohol.
If acid reflux occurs more frequently than 2-3 times a week for several weeks, you may be diagnosed with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). While acid reflux isn’t generally considered harmful, GERD can have potentially serious consequences if left untreated.
Persistent GERD symptoms can cause frequent and severe acid reflux symptoms that interfere with your daily life. The condition can also cause changes in your upper gastrointestinal tract that increase your risk of potentially life-threatening health complications, including cancer.
Esophagitis is one notable side effect of GERD. This condition describes chronic inflammation in the lining of your esophagus that might lead to ulcers and permanent scar tissue.
Ongoing exposure to stomach acids may also lead to Barrett’s esophagus. In people with Barrett’s esophagus, tissues that line the esophagus begin to resemble the tissues in the intestinal lining. These tissue changes can significantly increase risk factors for esophageal cancer.
GERD symptoms can also worsen respiratory symptoms like wheezing, shortness of breath, and coughing in people with asthma.
Initial treatment for acid reflux and GERD includes lifestyle and diet changes. Our gastroenterologists help you identify which foods and activities that trigger your symptoms, so you can avoid them. We also offer integrative nutrition services that teach you how to make healthier food choices.
Over-the-counter and prescription acid reducers are available to neutralize stomach acids to minimize inflammation in the upper gastrointestinal tract.
If you’re obese, have severe GERD symptoms, and are at an increased risk for esophageal cancer, our physicians can determine if you’re a candidate for medical weight loss. We offer the Orbera™ gastric balloon, a minimally invasive procedure that supports consistent and safe weight loss.
Call the Gastro Center of Maryland office near you today to schedule a diagnostic evaluation for acid reflux symptoms or book a consultation online.
