GERD: When Heartburn Becomes a Chronic Problem

Occasional heartburn is a common digestive problem often relieved with over-the-counter antacids. If you are suffering frequent or stubborn heartburn symptoms, seek out the expertise of your gastroenterologist. You could have a condition known as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). The providers at Carson City Gastroenterology offer comprehensive GI services, including diagnosing and treating GERD and heartburn in Carson City, Nevada.

What You Need to Know About Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)

GERD symptoms occur because the sphincter muscle separating your esophagus from your stomach isn't closing properly. When the sphincter muscle stays open, even partially, stomach acid can travel up into your esophagus, causing signs and symptoms of GERD.

You may have GERD if you are experiencing:

• Chronic bad breath
• Chronic sour taste in your mouth
• Chronic sore throats, dry coughing, or wheezing
• Chronic nausea, vomiting, or chest pain
• Increased tooth sensitivity from tooth enamel erosion

 You can do a lot to minimize the symptoms of heartburn and GERD in Carson City, Nevada if you: 

• Eat small meals several times daily 
• Avoid eating large meals before you go to bed 
• Don't smoke or use tobacco products 
• Avoid or limit eating spicy or acidic foods 
• Take over-the-counter antacid medications 

 If your heartburn symptoms are increasing in frequency or worsening, seek out the expertise of your gastroenterologist. Untreated GERD can lead to esophageal damage and even esophageal cancer.

Your gastroenterologist may recommend an endoscopy to assess whether your GERD has caused esophageal damage. To treat GERD, your gastroenterologist may recommend: 

• Dietary and nutritional counseling 
• Prescription antacid medications 
• Prescription medications to strengthen the esophageal sphincter muscle 
• Surgical treatment for severe GERD that doesn't respond to medication therapy 

 Do You Want to Know More About GERD and GERD Treatment?

To learn more about the causes, signs, symptoms, and treatment of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and heartburn in Carson City, Nevada, call Dr. Collins, Dr. Massey, and Dr. Hsieh at Carson City Gastroenterology at (775) 884-4567 today.