After a large lunch, do you ever have a burning feeling in your chest, especially if you lie down too soon? That is heartburn, another name for acid reflux. It is uncomfortable and occurs when stomach acid refluxes into the esophagus.
It’s common to get heartburn occasionally, especially after consuming rich foods. However, GERD, a chronic form of acid reflux, may be the cause if it occurs frequently, more than a few times a week. It is not a good idea to ignore it because prolonged exposure to acid might harm the esophagus.
It is best to consult a physician if you have chronic acid reflux. Early detection can assist safeguard your health and stop additional issues.
Is GERD and acid reflux same thing?
Food should go down in your stomach, not the other way around. However, stomach acid can occasionally travel in the incorrect direction and end up in your neck and esophagus. Acid reflux is that.
Because your esophagus isn’t designed to withstand acid, it becomes irritated and inflamed, which results in heartburn, which is a burning sensation in your throat or chest. Acid reflux is frequent after a large meal, and it’s usually not a major issue.
However, it is referred to as GERD, a chronic form of acid reflux, when it occurs frequently. If you have recurrent acid reflux, it’s crucial to be evaluated because prolonged exposure to stomach acid can harm your esophagus.
Signs of Acid Reflux and GERD
Not sure if you have acid reflux or something more serious like GERD? Watch for these signs:
- Backwash feeling – when acid or food comes back up into your throat, leaving a sour taste.
- Heartburn – a burning feeling in your chest or stomach ache after eating.
- Chest pain – can feel like heart pain, making it hard to tell the difference.
- Nausea or feeling overly full hours after eating.
- Sore throat or a feeling of a lump in your throat, especially at night.
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Lying down, big meals, smoking, and alcohol can make it worse. If these symptoms happen regularly, talk to a doctor.
Why Do People Get Acid Reflux?
When the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), a muscle ring that separates your stomach and esophagus, fails to close correctly, acid reflux occurs. It should open for food and close to prevent acid reflux, but occasionally it relaxes or weakens, resulting in GERD or heartburn.
Typical causes of your LES’s poor performance include:
- Hiatal Hernia – Part of the stomach pushes into the chest, trapping acid.
- Pregnancy – Hormones and pressure can relax the LES.
- Obesity – Extra weight puts pressure on the stomach and LES.
- Smoking – Weakens the LES and triggers coughing.
- Other things – Birth defects, medical conditions, surgeries, and some medications.
If acid reflux happens often, talk to a doctor to find the cause and best treatment.
What To Anticipate While Diagnosing GERD
A gastroenterologist will examine your esophagus to determine the cause of your suspected GERD. To obtain a clear picture, they employ many tests:
- Esophagram: After consuming a barium beverage, an X-ray demonstrates the movement of your esophagus while swallowing.
- Esophageal pH Test: Over time, a little instrument measures the acidity of your esophagus.
- Robotic Hernia Repair: A form of laparoscopic surgery where robotic instruments assist in the repair. The surgeon controls the robotic system from a console for precise movements.
- Esophageal Manometry: A sensor-equipped tube gauges the strength of your esophageal muscles during swallowing.
Doctors use these tests to determine the best course of action. Ask your gastroenterologist any questions you may have if you’re unclear!
What Comes Next in GERD Management?
The first step in treating GERD is changing your lifestyle, which includes eating smaller meals, abstaining from alcohol and tobacco, and keeping your weight in check. Medication may be helpful if symptoms continue:
- Antacids (Tums, Rolaids) – Neutralize acid for quick relief.
- Alginates – Form a protective barrier over stomach acid to reduce reflux.
- H2 Blockers – Lower acid production by blocking histamine signals.
- PPIs (Proton Pump Inhibitors) – Strong acid blockers that also heal the esophagus.
- Baclofen – A muscle relaxant that helps the LES stay closed.
Dr. Ishan Shah, the best gastroenterologist in Ahmedabad will guide you to the best treatment based on your symptoms.
Why Trust Dr. Ishan Shah to Treat Your GERD?
Expert care is necessary to manage acid reflux and GERD, and Dr. Ishan Shah, a well-known gastroenterologist in Ahmedabad, provides the thorough, patient-centered treatment. He has years of expertise in identifying and treating digestive diseases, and he uses cutting-edge diagnostic techniques to identify the underlying cause and create efficient, individualized treatment programs. Better results and quicker recovery are guaranteed by his proficiency in contemporary therapies and minimally invasive procedures.
For long-lasting relief, Dr. Ishan Shah offers precise, evidence-based therapies for issues ranging from mild heartburn to severe GERD difficulties.
