It’s not uncommon to experience a burning sensation in your chest after eating a big meal or drinking a cup of coffee. However, if your acid reflux occurs weekly, then you may have gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). The gastroenterology experts at Digestive Disease Care with New York offices in Babylon, Lake Success, East Setauket, Mineola, and Jericho in Long Island, and Forest Hills and Jamaica in Queens, specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of acid reflux, developing treatment plans that address the underlying cause of your symptoms. To schedule an appointment, call or book online today.
Acid reflux, also known as gastroesophageal reflux (GER), occurs when the acidic contents from your stomach reflux up into your esophagus, causing a burning sensation best known as heartburn.
Typically, the ring of muscles that separate your esophagus and stomach, or lower esophageal sphincter (LES), creates a tight seal that protects your esophagus from the acidic contents of your stomach. However, if your LES muscles are weak or it relaxes when it shouldn’t, then acid reflux occurs.
The changes in LES function may result from certain medications, smoking, or exposure to second-hand smoke. Overweight, obesity, and pregnancy also increase abdominal pressure, which affects LES function.
Having acid reflux on occasion is common. However, if your acid reflux occurs more than twice a week, then you may have GERD, which is a chronic condition that requires medical care from the gastroenterology team at Digestive Disease Care.
In addition to heartburn, other GERD symptoms include:
Without proper treatment, your chronic acid reflux may increase your risk of other health complications, such as esophagitis, esophageal strictures, or Barrett’s esophagus.
You can expect a comprehensive and professional evaluation when you come in to see the gastroenterology team at Digestive Disease Care for help with your acid reflux. The team asks detailed questions about your symptoms, medical history, medication use, diet, and lifestyle.
The full-service practice also offers several diagnostic tests to confirm a diagnosis, including:
The team uses the information gathered during your evaluation to develop your personalized treatment plan.
The gastroenterology team at Digestive Disease Care takes the time to discuss and meticulously address the causes of your heartburn. Their goal is to treat your acid reflux without medications so you can get the relief you need and avoid the side effects that come with prescription medications.
Your treatment plan may include:
Ongoing medical care is essential when diagnosed with acid reflux or GERD to monitor your symptoms, screen for health complications, and adjust your treatment as needed.
To get relief from your acid reflux from a team who always places your needs first, contact Digestive Disease Care by phone or online today.
