Acid Reflux (GERD)

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) or acid reflux occurs when abdominal or stomach acid flows back into the esophagus. The backwash irritates the lining of the food pipe. Although many people experience and can be managed with lifestyle changes or through use of over the counter medicine. Some may require stronger medications or even surgery to help in easing the symptoms. Common signs and symptoms may include: burning sensation in the chest, normally what people refer to as heartburn – this usually happens after meals, there are also chest pains, regurgitation, feeling as if there is a lump in the throat and having difficulty while swallowing. We will conduct a physical examination as well as take a comprehensive history of the signs and symptoms that you present. With this we can confirm a diagnosis and check if there are complications, we recommend upper endoscopy, ambulatory acid probe test, esophageal manometry, x-ray targeting the upper digestive system. Based on the test results we will recommend the best treatment options which could include medication GERD surgery as well as advice on the best lifestyle modifications which may be required to eliminate the problem.