Is acid reflux dictating what you can and can’t eat? Are you tired of the gnawing, burning sensation in your chest? We know that acid reflux can be a real pain, especially for people who suffer from it regularly. While the occasional bout of acid reflux might just mean something simple like needing to change your diet, if you are dealing with acid reflux two or more times a week, then it may be time to turn to our New York, NY, gastroenterologist Dr. Babak Mohajer for a further evaluation.
Signs of Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)
Most people will experience acid reflux at some point during their lifetime. Acid reflux refers to stomach acid traveling back up into the esophagus, typically after eating or drinking. When acid travels into the throat this can lead to a burning in the chest known as heartburn.
While a bout of acid reflux here and there doesn’t necessarily mean you have GERD, acid reflux can progress into this gastrointestinal problem, which is more serious and requires professional care and treatment. If you experience frequent heartburn symptoms, if you regurgitate food or liquids, or if you experience persistent coughing or trouble swallowing, then you could have GERD.
When to See a Doctor
If you experience symptoms two or more times a week despite trying to avoid common triggering foods and drinks, then it’s a good idea to visit our team. If your acid reflux is also getting worse, you’re experiencing trouble swallowing or your symptoms are impacting your life, these are also reasons to turn to us. After all, GERD does require proper management and treatment to reduce the risk for esophageal cancer.
Treating GERD-related Acid Reflux
Along with lifestyle changes such as altering your diet and eating smaller meals, there are medications that Dr. Mohajer and his team can prescribe to help get your GERD under control. One of the most common medications used is a proton pump inhibitor (PPI), which neutralizes acid in the stomach to promote healing of the esophageal lining.
If your acid reflux isn’t responding to medication and lifestyle changes. then surgery may be the best option. Two minimally invasive surgical procedures can be performed (often laparoscopically) to repair and restore function into the esophageal sphincter, which will prevent food and acid from traveling back up and into the throat.
Dr. Mohajer and his team are dedicated to helping you get your GERD under control. If acid reflux is plaguing you, it’s time you found out if something more is going on so that you can get the treatment you need. Call us at (212) 260-6505 to schedule an appointment.
