What is gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)?
Gastroesophageal reflux disease or GERD is a chronic gastrointestinal condition characterized by the refluxing of the acidic contents of your stomach up into your esophagus. It’s not uncommon to experience occasional heartburn or gastroesophageal reflux (GER).
However, if you have heartburn two or more times a week, you may have GERD. When left undiagnosed and untreated, the chronic refluxing of the acidic contents of your stomach damages the delicate esophageal tissue and increases your risk of developing more serious health complications such as:
- Esophagitis (inflammation of the esophagus)
- Esophageal strictures
- Barrett’s esophagus
GERD may also increase your risk of esophageal cancer.
What are GERD symptoms?
Heartburn is the most common GERD symptom. In addition to the burning in your chest, your GERD may also be responsible for:
- The bad taste in the back of your mouth
- Your Indigestion
- Your nausea or vomiting
- Your difficulty sleeping
- Your laryngitis
- Your difficulty swallowing
- The wearing away of the enamel on the back of your teeth
If you’re experiencing these symptoms routinely, you may benefit from a gastroenterology consultation with Leslie F. Seecoomar, MD, PC.
How is gastroesophageal reflux disease or GERD diagnosed?
When you visit Leslie F. Seecoomar, MD, PC, with GERD symptoms, you can expect a comprehensive history review and physical exam. As an experienced board-certified gastroenterologist, Dr. Seecoomar takes a holistic and personalized approach when caring for his patients.
He finds that when he takes the time to really get to know you and establish a trusting patient-doctor relationship, you’re more likely to share your symptoms and concerns. He can then gather all the information he needs to establish an accurate diagnosis, so you get the most effective treatment.
To confirm a GERD diagnosis and assess the severity of the damage, you may also undergo diagnostic testing such as blood work, ultrasound, X-ray, or upper endoscopy.
How is GERD treated?
Dr. Seecoomar takes a personalized approach to the treatment of GERD. Your treatment plan depends on the severity of your symptoms and the degree of esophageal damage.
Treatment may include:
- Lifestyle changes
- Diet modification
- Weight loss
- Stress management tools
- Exercise program
- Medication to decrease stomach acidity
- Medication to increase gastrointestinal motility
The goal of treatment is to provide guidance on how to prevent symptoms with minimal prescription medications. Once you treat the underlying cause of your GERD, you may experience a significant improvement in your symptoms and quality of life.
To schedule your GERD consultation with an experienced gastroenterologist who puts your needs above all else, call the office of Leslie F. Seecoomar, MD, PC, or book online today.
