{"id":21,"date":"2019-01-30T07:36:55","date_gmt":"2019-01-30T07:36:55","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.bonheurmd.com\/new-page-1\/"},"modified":"2024-06-03T04:56:01","modified_gmt":"2024-06-03T08:56:01","slug":"reflux-disease-heartburn","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/www.bonheurmd.com\/reflux-disease-heartburn\/","title":{"rendered":"Reflux Disease (Heartburn)"},"content":{"rendered":"<p>[et_pb_section fb_built=&#8221;1&#8243; fullwidth=&#8221;on&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;3.19.13&#8243; top_divider_style=&#8221;arrow3&#8243; top_divider_color=&#8221;#59aad6&#8243; top_divider_height=&#8221;15px&#8221; global_module=&#8221;202&#8243; saved_tabs=&#8221;all&#8221;][et_pb_fullwidth_post_title meta=&#8221;off&#8221; featured_image=&#8221;off&#8221; text_color=&#8221;light&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;3.19.13&#8243; title_font=&#8221;||||||||&#8221; use_background_color_gradient=&#8221;on&#8221; background_color_gradient_start=&#8221;#1f4b64&#8243; background_color_gradient_end=&#8221;#59aad6&#8243; background_color_gradient_direction=&#8221;89deg&#8221; custom_padding=&#8221;45px||30px||false&#8221;][\/et_pb_fullwidth_post_title][\/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=&#8221;1&#8243; _builder_version=&#8221;3.0.47&#8243;][et_pb_row _builder_version=&#8221;3.0.48&#8243; background_size=&#8221;initial&#8221; background_position=&#8221;top_left&#8221; background_repeat=&#8221;repeat&#8221;][et_pb_column type=&#8221;2_3&#8243; _builder_version=&#8221;3.0.47&#8243;][et_pb_text admin_label=&#8221;Table of Contents&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;3.19.13&#8243; text_text_color=&#8221;#097b4e&#8221; header_2_text_color=&#8221;#000000&#8243; custom_css_main_element=&#8221;#table-of-contents a{color:#009e69;}&#8221; global_module=&#8221;9661&#8243; saved_tabs=&#8221;all&#8221;]<\/p>\n\n  <script type=\"text\/javascript\">\n    jQuery(document).ready(function(jQuery) {\n\n      var x = document.getElementsByClassName(\"toc\");\n      var i;\n      var dataTOCHeader;\n\n      for (i = 0; i < x.length; i++) {\n          \/\/dataTOCHeader = x[i].getAttribute('data-toc-header');\n          if (!x[i].getAttribute(\"data-toc-header\")) {\n            \/\/ data attribute doesn't exist or is empty\n            dataTOCHeader = x[i].innerText;\n          } else {\n            dataTOCHeader = x[i].getAttribute('data-toc-header');\n          }\n\n          x[i].setAttribute('id', 'toc-header-'+i);\n\n          jQuery( \"<a href="#toc-header-\"+ i +\""><\/a>\" ).prependTo( x[i] );\n          jQuery( \"<li><a href="#toc-header-\"+ i +\"">\"+ dataTOCHeader +\"<\/a><\/li>\" ).appendTo( \"#table-of-contents>ul\" );\n      }\n\n    });\n  <\/script>\n\n  <div id=\"table-of-contents\">\n    <ul>\n    <\/ul>\n  <\/div>\n\n\n<p>[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=&#8221;3.19.13&#8243; background_size=&#8221;initial&#8221; background_position=&#8221;top_left&#8221; background_repeat=&#8221;repeat&#8221;]<\/p>\n<h2 class=\"toc\" data-toc-header=\"What is it?\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">What Is Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)?<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" class=\"wp-image-584  aligncenter\" src=\"https:\/\/www.bonheurmd.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/02\/Reflux-Disease-Heartburn-300x202.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"601\" height=\"404\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.bonheurmd.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/02\/Reflux-Disease-Heartburn-300x202.png 300w, https:\/\/www.bonheurmd.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/02\/Reflux-Disease-Heartburn.png 607w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 601px) 100vw, 601px\" \/><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Gastroesophageal reflux is a physical condition in which acid from the stomach flows backward up into the esophagus. People can experience heartburn when excessive amounts of acid reflux into the esophagus. Most people will experience heartburn if the lining of the esophagus comes in contact with too much stomach juice for too long a period of time. This stomach juice consists of acid, digestive enzymes, and other injurious materials. The prolonged contact of acidic stomach juice with the esophageal lining injures the esophagus and produces a burning discomfort. Normally, a muscular valve at the lower end of the esophagus called the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) keeps the acid in the stomach and out of the esophagus. In gastroesophageal reflux disease, the LES relaxes too frequently, which allows stomach acid to reflux, or flow backward into the esophagus.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2 class=\"toc\" data-toc-header=\"Causes\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">What Are The Causes of Acid Reflux?<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Heartburn is normally caused by lifestyle choices and what you put into your body. \u00a0More specifically\u2026.<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Eating large meals or lying down right after a meal<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Being overweight or obese<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Eating a heavy meal and lying on your back or bending over at the waist<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Snacking close to bedtime<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Eating certain foods, such as citrus, tomato, chocolate, mint, garlic, onions, or spicy or fatty foods<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2>\u00a0<\/h2>\n<h2 class=\"toc\" data-toc-header=\"Symptoms\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">What Are The Signs And Symptoms Of Reflux Disease?<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Many describe heartburn as a burning discomfort, localized behind the breastbone that moves up toward the neck and throat. Some even experience the bitter or sour taste of the acid in the back of the throat or mouth. The burning and pressure symptoms of heartburn can last for several hours and often worsen after eating food. Occasional heartburn is very common. However, frequent heartburn, (two or more times a week), difficulty swallowing or weight loss may be associated with a more severe problem known as gastroesophageal reflux disease.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2>\u00a0<\/h2>\n<h2 class=\"toc\" data-toc-header=\"Risk Factors\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">What Are The Risk Factors Of Heartburn?<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The potential risk factors of acid reflux disease are those caused by life choices and other factors&#8230;<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Drinking certain beverages, such as alcohol, carbonated drinks, coffee, or tea<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Smoking<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Being pregnant<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Taking aspirin, ibuprofen, certain muscle relaxers, or blood pressure medications<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2>\u00a0<\/h2>\n<h2 class=\"toc\" data-toc-header=\"Tests\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Tests To Evaluate For Acid Reflux Disease<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><b>Upper Endoscopy: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">This test involves passing a thin flexible tube through the mouth into the esophagus, stomach and the beginning of the small bowel to examine for abnormalities. The tube has a light and a camera at the tip and the lining of the digestive tract is directly visualized. The test is performed using sedation. It is the best test to identify injury (erosions and ulcers) in the upper GI tract and Barrett\u2019s esophagus.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Upper GI Series:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> This test involves drinking a liquid barium mixture. The radiologist uses a fluoroscope to watch the barium as it travels down the esophagus and into the stomach. The patient is asked to move into various positions on the X-ray table while the radiologist watches the GI tract and takes X-rays.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Esophageal Manometry or esophageal PH:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Esophageal manometry involves passing a small flexible tube through the nose into the esophagus and stomach in order to measure pressures and function of the esophagus. The acid level in the esophagus can be measured over a 48-hour period by attaching a capsule to the lining of the esophagus.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Extra-Esophageal Manifestations (EEM): <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">GERD can masquerade as other diseases. Increasingly, we are becoming aware that the irritation and damage to the esophagus from continual presence of acid can prompt an entire array of symptoms other than simple heartburn. The role of acid reflux has been overlooked as a potential factor in the diagnosis and treatment of patients with chronic cough, hoarseness and asthma-like symptoms. In some instances, patients have never reported heartburn.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2>\u00a0<\/h2>\n<h2 class=\"toc\" data-toc-header=\"Prevention\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Are There Preventative Steps or Measures To Avoid Acid Reflux?<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">In order to decrease the number of gastric contents that reach the lower esophagus, certain simple guidelines should be followed through lifestyle and dietary modifications:<\/span><\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" class=\"wp-image-589  aligncenter\" src=\"https:\/\/www.bonheurmd.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/02\/lifestyle-and-dietary-300x230.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"641\" height=\"491\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.bonheurmd.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/02\/lifestyle-and-dietary-300x230.png 300w, https:\/\/www.bonheurmd.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/02\/lifestyle-and-dietary.png 617w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 641px) 100vw, 641px\" \/><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Eat small frequent meals rather than fewer large meals.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2>\u00a0<\/h2>\n<h2 class=\"toc\" data-toc-header=\"Risks If Untreated\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">What Are The Potential Risks If Reflux Disease Is Left Untreated?<\/span><\/h2>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Peptic Stricture<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">This results from chronic acid injury and scarring of the lower esophagus. Patients complain of food sticking in the lower esophagus.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Barrett\u2019s Esophagus<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A serious complication of chronic GERD is Barrett\u2019s esophagus. The lining of the esophagus, in patients with Barrett\u2019s esophagus, has changed to resemble the stomach lining. As a result, patients may complain of less heartburn with Barrett\u2019s\u00a0<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">esophagus. Unfortunately, this is a pre-cancerous condition: patients with Barrett\u2019s esophagus have approximately a 30-fold increased risk of developing esophageal cancer. These patients should be followed by endoscopy.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Esophageal Cancer<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If GERD is left untreated for many years, it could lead to this most serious complication \u2013 Barrett\u2019s esophagus and esophageal cancer. In patients with chronic heartburn, an endoscopy will often be recommended to visually monitor the condition of\u00a0<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">the lining of the esophagus and identify or confirm the absence of any suspicious or pre-malignant lesions, such as Barrett\u2019s esophagus. The preventative strategy is to treat heartburn. The survival rate for esophageal cancer, at this time, is dismal.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2>\u00a0<\/h2>\n<h2 class=\"toc\" data-toc-header=\"Treatment Options\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Are There Treatment Options To Heartburn?<\/span><\/h2>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Medical Treatment<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Acid Reflux Disease has a physical cause and frequently is not curtailed by these lifestyle factors alone. If you are using over-the-counter medications two or more times a week, your doctor may recommend evaluation for GERD and prescribe medications that\u00a0<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">reduce acid production, increase LES tone, or improve gastric emptying.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Surgical Treatment<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Surgical measures to prevent reflux can be considered if other measures fail or complications occur such as bleeding, recurrent stricture, or Barrett\u2019s esophagus (abnormal transformation of cells lining the esophagus). The surgical technique\u00a0<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">improves the natural barrier between the stomach and the esophagus that prevents acid reflux from occurring. Consultation with both a gastroenterologist and a surgeon is recommended prior to such a decision. There are always new treatments and\u00a0<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">possibilities looming on the horizon.<\/span><\/p>\n<p>[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text disabled_on=&#8221;on|on|on&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;3.19.10&#8243; background_size=&#8221;initial&#8221; background_position=&#8221;top_left&#8221; background_repeat=&#8221;repeat&#8221; disabled=&#8221;on&#8221;]<\/p>\n<h2>Incidence<\/h2>\n<p>More than 60 million Americans experience heartburn (acid indigestion) at least once a month and more than 15 million Americans experience heartburn symptoms each day.<\/p>\n<p><img src=\"https:\/\/www.bonheurmd.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/02\/Reflux-Disease-Heartburn.png\" alt=\"Reflux Disease Heartburn\" \/><\/p>\n<h2>Gastroesophageal reflux<\/h2>\n<p>Gastroesophageal reflux is a physical condition in which acid from the stomach flows backward up into the esophagus. People can experience heartburn when excessive amounts of acid reflux into the esophagus. Many describe heartburn as a burning<br \/>\n  discomfort, localized behind the breastbone that moves up toward the neck and throat. Some even experience the bitter or sour taste of the acid in the back of the throat or mouth. The burning and pressure symptoms of heartburn can last for several<br \/>\n  hours and often worsen after eating food. Occasional heartburn is very common. However, frequent heartburn, (two or more times a week), difficulty swallowing or weight loss may be associated with a more severe problem known as gastroesophageal<br \/>\n  reflux disease or GERD.<\/p>\n<p>Most people will experience heartburn if the lining of the esophagus comes in contact with too much stomach juice for too long a period of time. This stomach juice consists of acid, digestive enzymes, and other injurious materials. The prolonged<br \/>\n  contact of acidic stomach juice with the esophageal lining injures the esophagus and produces a burning discomfort. Normally, a muscular valve at the lower end of the esophagus called the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) keeps the acid in the<br \/>\n  stomach and out of the esophagus. In gastroesophageal reflux disease or GERD, the LES relaxes too frequently, which allows stomach acid to reflux, or flow backward into the esophagus.<\/p>\n<h2>Tests to evaluate for GERD<\/h2>\n<h3>UPPER ENDOSCOPY<\/h3>\n<p>This test involves passing a thin flexible tube through the mouth into the esophagus, stomach and the beginning of the small bowel to examine for abnormalities. The tube has a light and a camera at the tip and the lining of digestive tract is<br \/>\n  directly visualized. The test is performed using sedation. It is the best test to identify injury (erosions and ulcers) in the upper GI tract and Barrett\u2019s esophagus.<\/p>\n<h3>UPPER GI SERIES<\/h3>\n<p>This test involves drinking a liquid barium mixture. The radiologist uses a fluoroscope to watch the barium as it travels down the esophagus and into the stomach. The patient is asked to move into various positions on the X-ray table while the<br \/>\n  radiologist watches the GI tract and takes X-rays.<\/p>\n<h3>ESOPHOGEAL MANOMETRY OR ESOPHAGEAL PH<\/h3>\n<p>Esophageal manometry involves passing a small flexible tube through the nose into the esophagus and stomach in order to measure pressures and function of the esophagus. The acid level in the esophagus can be measured over a 48-hour period by<br \/>\n  attaching a capsule to the lining of the esophagus.<\/p>\n<h3>Extra-Esophageal Manifestations (EEM): GERD can masquerade as other diseases<\/h3>\n<p>Increasingly, we are becoming aware that the irritation and damage to the esophagus from continual presence of acid can prompt an entire array of symptoms other than simple heartburn. The role of acid reflux has been overlooked as a potential<br \/>\n  factor in the diagnosis and treatment of patients with chronic cough, hoarseness and asthma-like symptoms. In some instances, patients have never reported heartburn.<\/p>\n<h2>Potential Complications from GERD<\/h2>\n<h3>PEPTIC STRICTURE<\/h3>\n<p>This results from chronic acid injury and scarring of the lower esophagus. Patients complain of food sticking in the lower esophagus.<\/p>\n<h3>BARRETT\u2019S ESOPHAGUS<\/h3>\n<p>A serious complication of chronic GERD is Barrett\u2019s esophagus. The lining of the esophagus, in patients with Barrett\u2019s esophagus has changed to resemble the stomach lining. As a result, patients may complain of less heartburn with Barrett\u2019s<br \/>\n  esophagus. Unfortunately, this is a pre-cancerous condition: patients with Barrett\u2019s esophagus have approximately a 30-fold increased risk of developing esophageal cancer. These patients should be followed by endoscopy.<\/p>\n<h3>ESOPHAGEAL CANCER<\/h3>\n<p>If GERD is left untreated for many years, it could lead to this most serious complication \u2013 Barrett\u2019s esophagus and esophageal cancer. In patients with chronic heartburn, an endoscopy will often be recommended to visually monitor the condition of<br \/>\n  the lining of the esophagus and identify or confirm the absence of any suspicious or pre-malignant lesions, such as Barrett\u2019s esophagus. The preventative strategy is to treat GERD. Survival rate for esophageal cancer, at this time, is dismal.<\/p>\n<h3>Treatments<\/h3>\n<p>In many cases, infrequent heartburn can be controlled by lifestyle modifications and proper use of over-the-counter medicines.<\/p>\n<h3>LIFESTYLE AND DIETARY MODIFICATIONS<\/h3>\n<p>In order to decrease the amount of gastric contents that reach the lower esophagus, certain simple guidelines should be followed:<\/p>\n<p><img src=\"https:\/\/www.bonheurmd.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/02\/lifestyle-and-dietary.png\" alt=\"Lifestyle and Dietary Modifications\" \/><\/p>\n<p>Eat small frequent meals rather than fewer large meals.<\/p>\n<h3>MEDICAL TREATMENT OF GERD<\/h3>\n<p>GERD has a physical cause, and frequently is not curtailed by these lifestyle factors alone. If you are using over-the-counter medications two or more times a week, your doctor may recommend evaluation for GERD and prescribe medications that<br \/>\n  reduce acid production, increase LES tone, or improve gastric emptying.<\/p>\n<h3>SURGICAL TREATMENT OF GERD<\/h3>\n<p>Surgical measures to prevent reflux can be considered if other measures fail or complications occur such as bleeding, recurrent stricture, or Barrett\u2019s esophagus (abnormal transformation of cells lining the esophagus). The surgical technique<br \/>\n  improves the natural barrier between the stomach and the esophagus that prevents acid reflux from occurring. Consultation with both a gastroenterologist and a surgeon is recommended prior to such a decision. There are always new treatments and<br \/>\n  possibilities looming on the horizon.<\/p>\n<h3>LINX PROCEDURE<\/h3>\n<p>One surgical option may be the placement of the LINX device.<\/p>\n<p>[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=&#8221;1_3&#8243; _builder_version=&#8221;3.0.47&#8243;][et_pb_sidebar orientation=&#8221;right&#8221; admin_label=&#8221;Sidebar&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;3.19.10&#8243; global_module=&#8221;222&#8243; saved_tabs=&#8221;all&#8221;][\/et_pb_sidebar][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=&#8221;1&#8243; prev_background_color=&#8221;#000000&#8243; next_background_color=&#8221;#000000&#8243; _builder_version=&#8221;3.19.4&#8243;][et_pb_row custom_padding=&#8221;||0px|&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;3.19.4&#8243; custom_css_main_element=&#8221;.author-post-meta-reviewer {||   display: none;||} &#8220;][et_pb_column type=&#8221;4_4&#8243; _builder_version=&#8221;3.0.47&#8243;][et_pb_text admin_label=&#8221;Author Box&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;3.19.4&#8243; saved_tabs=&#8221;all&#8221;]<\/p>\n<p>\n\n\t  <div id=\"author-bio-box\">\n\t    <div id=\"author-bio-photo\">\n\t      <div class=\"profile-photo\">\n\t        <a href=\"https:\/\/www.bonheurmd.com\/about-jennifer-bonheur-md\/\">\n\t          <img src=\"https:\/\/www.bonheurmd.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/02\/Jennifer-Bonheur-MD.jpg\" alt=\"Jennifer Bonheur, MD\" title=\"Jennifer Bonheur, MD\" \/>\n\t        <\/a>\n\t      <\/div>\n\t    <\/div><!-- end author-bio-photo -->\n\n\t    <div id=\"author-bio-content\">\n\t      <h3>Meet Jennifer Bonheur, MD<\/h3>\n\t      <p>Â鶹ÊÓƵ is a board-certified gastroenterologist who loves her work and values her relationships with her patients. As a female gastroenterologist, she strives to connect and treat the patient and not simply the illness. Â鶹ÊÓƵ offers specialized care in gastroenterology and therapeutic endoscopy. Together with her staff, she is committed to providing the highest quality medical care in a comfortable, professional and personalized environment. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.bonheurmd.com\/about-jennifer-bonheur-md\/\" class=\"bio-learn-more\">Learn&nbsp;More &raquo;<\/a><\/p>\n\n\t      <div class=\"bio-separator\"><\/div>\n\n\t      <div class=\"author-post-meta\">\n\t        <div class=\"authors\">\n\t          <p>\n\t            <span class=\"author-post-meta-author\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tBy: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.bonheurmd.com\/about-jennifer-bonheur-md\/\">Jennifer Bonheur, MD<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span><br \/>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"author-post-meta-reviewer\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tReviewed By: <a href=\"\"><\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t          <\/p>\n\t        <\/div>\n\t        <div class=\"dates\">\n\t          <p>\n\t            Published: Jan 30th, 2019<br \/>\n\t            Last Reviewed: Jun 3rd, 2024\t          <\/p>\n\t        <\/div>\n\t        <div class=\"clear\"><\/div>\n\t      <\/div>\n\t    <\/div><!-- end author-bio-content -->\n\n\t    <div class=\"clear\"><\/div>\n\t  <\/div><!-- end author-bio-box -->\n[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=&#8221;1&#8243; admin_label=&#8221;Footer CTA Section&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;3.19.13&#8243; use_background_color_gradient=&#8221;on&#8221; background_color_gradient_start=&#8221;#59AAD6&#8243; background_color_gradient_end=&#8221;#A9BCD0&#8243; custom_padding=&#8221;74px||54px&#8221; top_divider_style=&#8221;arrow2&#8243; top_divider_color=&#8221;#ffffff&#8221; top_divider_height=&#8221;25px&#8221; global_module=&#8221;211&#8243; saved_tabs=&#8221;all&#8221;][et_pb_row admin_label=&#8221;Row&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;3.19.13&#8243;][et_pb_column type=&#8221;4_4&#8243; _builder_version=&#8221;3.19.10&#8243;][et_pb_text _builder_version=&#8221;3.19.10&#8243; text_font=&#8221;||||||||&#8221; header_font=&#8221;||||||||&#8221; header_3_font=&#8221;||||||||&#8221; header_3_font_size=&#8221;32px&#8221; text_orientation=&#8221;center&#8221;]<\/p>\n<h3>Schedule Your Appointment Today<\/h3>\n<p>[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_button button_url=&#8221;https:\/\/z3-rpw.phreesia.net\/ApptRequestForm.App\/#\/form\/f63c6c28-2242-4881-9397-208396d7aecc&#8221; button_text=&#8221;Request an Appointment&#8221; button_alignment=&#8221;center&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;3.19.10&#8243; background_layout=&#8221;dark&#8221;][\/et_pb_button][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>What Is Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)? Gastroesophageal reflux is a physical condition in which acid from the stomach flows backward up into the esophagus. People can experience heartburn when excessive amounts of acid reflux into the esophagus. Most people will experience heartburn if the lining of the esophagus comes in contact with too much stomach [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":0,"parent":0,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"_et_pb_use_builder":"on","_et_pb_old_content":"<h1>REFLUX DISEASE (HEARTBURN)<\/h1><h3><span style=\"font-size:16px\">Incidence<\/span><\/h3><p>More than 60 million Americans experience heartburn (acid indigestion) at least once a month and more than 15 million Americans experience heartburn symptoms each day.<\/p>\r\n  \r\n      <img src=\"https:\/\/static1.squarespace.com\/static\/57583bc51bbee06dff2e145e\/t\/57585e8245bf218e90d19fc9\/1465409160087\/?format=original\" alt=\"\"\/>\r\n  \r\n\r\n<h3><span style=\"font-size:16px\">Gastroesophageal reflux<\/span><\/h3><p>Gastroesophageal reflux is a physical condition in which acid from the stomach flows backward up into the esophagus. People can experience heartburn when excessive amounts of acid reflux into the esophagus. Many describe heartburn as a burning discomfort, localized behind the breastbone that moves up toward the neck and throat. Some even experience the bitter or sour taste of the acid in the back of the throat or mouth. The burning and pressure symptoms of heartburn can last for several hours and often worsen after eating food. Occasional heartburn is very common. However, frequent heartburn, (two or more times a week), difficulty swallowing or weight loss may be associated with a more severe problem known as gastroesophageal reflux disease or GERD.<\/p><p>Most people will experience heartburn if the lining of the esophagus comes in contact with too much stomach juice for too long a period of time. This stomach juice consists of acid, digestive enzymes, and other injurious materials. The prolonged contact of acidic stomach juice with the esophageal lining injures the esophagus and produces a burning discomfort. Normally, a muscular valve at the lower end of the esophagus called the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) keeps the acid in the stomach and out of the esophagus. In gastroesophageal reflux disease or GERD, the LES relaxes too frequently, which allows stomach acid to reflux, or flow backward into the esophagus.<\/p><h3><span style=\"font-size:16px\">Tests to evaluate for GERD<\/span><\/h3><h2>UPPER ENDOSCOPY<\/h2><p>This test involves passing a thin flexible tube through the mouth into the esophagus, stomach and the beginning of the small bowel to examine for abnormalities. The tube has a light and a camera at the tip and the lining of digestive tract is directly visualized. The test is performed using sedation. It is the best test to identify injury (erosions and ulcers) in the upper GI tract and Barrett\u2019s esophagus.<\/p><h2>UPPER GI SERIES<\/h2><p>This test involves drinking a liquid barium mixture. The radiologist uses a fluoroscope to watch the barium as it travels down the esophagus and into the stomach. The patient is asked to move into various positions on the X-ray table while the radiologist watches the GI tract and takes X-rays.<\/p><h2>ESOPHOGEAL MANOMETRY OR ESOPHAGEAL PH<\/h2><p>Esophageal manometry involves passing a small flexible tube through the nose into the esophagus and stomach in order to measure pressures and function of the esophagus. The acid level in the esophagus can be measured over a 48-hour period by attaching a capsule to the lining of the esophagus.<\/p><h3>Extra-Esophageal Manifestations (EEM): GERD can masquerade as other diseases<\/h3><p>Increasingly, we are becoming aware that the irritation and damage to the esophagus from continual presence of acid can prompt an entire array of symptoms other than simple heartburn. The role of acid reflux has been overlooked as a potential factor in the diagnosis and treatment of patients with chronic cough, hoarseness and asthma-like symptoms. In some instances, patients have never reported heartburn.<\/p><h3><span style=\"font-size:16px\">Potential Complications from GERD<\/span><\/h3><h2>PEPTIC STRICTURE<\/h2><p>This results from chronic acid injury and scarring of the lower esophagus. Patients complain of food sticking in the lower esophagus.<\/p><h2>BARRETT\u2019S ESOPHAGUS<\/h2><p>A serious complication of chronic GERD is Barrett\u2019s esophagus. The lining of the esophagus, in patients with Barrett\u2019s esophagus has changed to resemble the stomach lining. As a result, patients may complain of less heartburn with Barrett\u2019s esophagus. Unfortunately, this is a pre-cancerous condition: patients with Barrett\u2019s esophagus have approximately a 30-fold increased risk of developing esophageal cancer. These patients should be followed by endoscopy.<\/p><h2>ESOPHAGEAL CANCER<\/h2><p>If GERD is left untreated for many years, it could lead to this most serious complication \u2013 Barrett\u2019s esophagus and esophageal cancer. In patients with chronic heartburn, an endoscopy will often be recommended to visually monitor the condition of the lining of the esophagus and identify or confirm the absence of any suspicious or pre-malignant lesions, such as Barrett\u2019s esophagus. The preventative strategy is to treat GERD. Survival rate for esophageal cancer, at this time, is dismal.<\/p><h3>Treatments<\/h3><p>In many cases, infrequent heartburn can be controlled by lifestyle modifications and proper use of over-the-counter medicines.<\/p><h2>LIFESTYLE AND DIETARY MODIFICATIONS<\/h2><p>In order to decrease the amount of gastric contents that reach the lower esophagus, certain simple guidelines should be followed:<\/p>\r\n  \r\n      <img src=\"https:\/\/static1.squarespace.com\/static\/57583bc51bbee06dff2e145e\/t\/57585f91746fb9d1073dfc14\/1465409429974\/?format=original\" alt=\"\"\/>\r\n  \r\n\r\n<p>Eat small frequent meals rather than fewer large meals.<\/p><h2>MEDICAL TREATMENT OF GERD<\/h2><p>GERD has a physical cause, and frequently is not curtailed by these lifestyle factors alone. If you are using over-the-counter medications two or more times a week, your doctor may recommend evaluation for GERD and prescribe medications that reduce acid production, increase LES tone, or improve gastric emptying.<\/p><h2>SURGICAL TREATMENT OF GERD<\/h2><p>Surgical measures to prevent reflux can be considered if other measures fail or complications occur such as bleeding, recurrent stricture, or Barrett\u2019s esophagus (abnormal transformation of cells lining the esophagus). The surgical technique improves the natural barrier between the stomach and the esophagus that prevents acid reflux from occurring. Consultation with both a gastroenterologist and a surgeon is recommended prior to such a decision. There are always new treatments and possibilities looming on the horizon.<\/p><h2>LINX PROCEDURE<\/h2><p>One surgical option may be the placement of the LINX device.<\/p><p>\u00a0<\/p><p>\u00a0<\/p><p>\u00a0<\/p><p>\u00a0<\/p>","_et_gb_content_width":""},"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v18.3 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/wordpress\/plugins\/seo\/ -->\n<title>Reflux Disease (Heartburn) - Gastroenterologist<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Â鶹ÊÓƵ help with reflux disease (heartburn) is a physical condition in which acid from the stomach flows backward up into the esophagus.\" \/>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/www.bonheurmd.com\/reflux-disease-heartburn\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"Reflux Disease (Heartburn) - 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