According to the American Center for Disease Control, about 20% of adults in the United States have acid reflux no less than twice weekly. Infrequent acid reflux episodes could be natural. However, if you have chronic acid reflux, it could have a detrimental effect on your life quality, from stressing over when and what you ingest to the discomfort and pain it can cause. Besides, acid reflux could result in significant complications if it remains unaddressed. To find the best GERD/reflux specialist in Buckhead to help you manage your symptoms, and reclaim your life quality, schedule an initial consultation right away. For more information about acid reflux and when you should see a specialist about your concerns, read on!
What Exactly is Acid Reflux?
Acid reflux is a disorder that occurs once stomach acid pulls up into your esophagus, which is the lengthy tube that extends from the back of your mouth through to your stomach. This problem develops when the sphincter or valve that prevents stomach acid from reaching the esophagus ceases operating correctly.
The most typical symptom of acid reflux is burning in the throat or chest, which is caused by the soft tissues of your esophagus being unable to withstand the intensity of stomach acid. Acid reflux could also result in:
- Chest discomfort or heartburn
- Stomach pain or indigestion
- Difficulties swallowing or a sensation that something is stuck in your throat
Additionally, acid reflux could induce an acidic or metallic taste in your mouth.
When And Why Should You Consult an Expert for Acid Reflux?
You might have gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) if you experience acid reflux often (no less than twice per week). If you observe the symptoms above or frequently use over-the-counter antacids, arrange a consultation with Dr. Duncan.
It is critical to contact a specialist to help manage your symptoms early enough. Otherwise, you risk medical complications like:
- Your stomach’s contents rise to your lungs
- Intense coughing whenever you awake
- Asthma-like symptoms
- Dental issues
- Strictures or ulcerations
- Chronic swelling
- Precancerous adjustments in your esophagus
Whereas there are therapies for acid reflux available over-the-counter, obtaining a correct diagnosis is crucial to quality care. Seeing a specialist can help you get the treatment you need for your unique concern and care objectives.
How to Treat Acid Reflux?
The excellent thing is that there are multiple care options for acid reflux. Your Peachtree Surgical & Bariatrics physician will most certainly start therapy by suggesting lifestyle adjustments to manage your symptoms and fix the inherent cause. These include weight loss, changes in diet, and ceasing smoking.
Moreover, prescription or over-the-counter medications can assist in reducing the acid produced by your stomach. Other at-home strategies include lying for several hours after meals to reduce the likelihood of stomach acid pulling up your esophagus.
Nonetheless, lifestyle adjustments and drugs are not always sufficient to resolve acid reflux. In such circumstances, Dr. Duncan and the expert staff at Peachtree Surgical & Bariatrics employ reflux surgery.
If you have constant reflux issues, do not hesitate to seek expert care. Dr. Duncan’s reflux surgery procedure has a proven success rate and might be all you need to regain control of your wellness and enjoy life’s beauty once more. To discover if you are the right candidate for reflux surgery at Peachtree Surgical & Bariatrics, make an appointment through mobile or book online today.
