Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)

Comprehensive GERD Management

• Diagnosis and Assessment

  • Initial Evaluation: We begin with a thorough evaluation of the patient’s symptoms, medical history, and risk factors. Common symptoms of GERD include heartburn, regurgitation, difficulty swallowing, and chronic cough.
  • Diagnostic Tests: We utilize various diagnostic tools to confirm GERD and assess its severity:
    • Upper Endoscopy (Esophagogastroduodenoscopy, EGD): This procedure involves inserting a flexible tube with a camera (endoscope) down the throat to visualize the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum. It helps detect inflammation, ulcers, or other complications.
    • pH Monitoring: A test that measures the acidity level in the esophagus over 24 hours, helping to confirm acid reflux and its correlation with symptoms.
    • Esophageal Manometry: This test measures the strength and coordination of the esophagus muscles during swallowing, identifying motility disorders that may contribute to GERD.
    • Barium Swallow: An X-ray test where patients drink a barium solution, allowing visualization of the esophagus and identifying abnormalities like strictures or hernias.

• Medical Management

  • Lifestyle Modifications: We provide guidance on lifestyle changes that can help manage GERD symptoms, including:
    • Dietary Adjustments: Avoiding trigger foods (such as spicy, fatty, or acidic foods), eating smaller meals, and not lying down immediately after eating.
    • Weight Management: Losing weight if overweight, as excess weight can increase abdominal pressure and exacerbate reflux.
    • Smoking Cessation and Alcohol Reduction: Reducing or eliminating smoking and alcohol consumption, as these can relax the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) and worsen reflux.
  • Medications: We offer a range of medications to reduce stomach acid production and relieve symptoms, including:
    • Antacids: Over-the-counter medications that neutralize stomach acid.
    • H2 Receptor Blockers: Medications that reduce acid production, such as ranitidine and famotidine.
    • Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs): More potent acid reducers, such as omeprazole, esomeprazole, and pantoprazole, are often prescribed for more severe cases.
    • Prokinetics: Medications that help strengthen the LES and improve stomach emptying.

• Complication Management

  • We closely monitor and manage complications of GERD, such as:
    • Esophagitis: Inflammation of the esophagus lining.
    • Barrett’s Esophagus: A condition where the esophagus lining changes due to prolonged acid exposure, increasing the risk of esophageal cancer.
    • Esophageal Strictures: Narrowing of the esophagus due to scar tissue, which can cause difficulty swallowing
  • Our team provides specialized care, including regular surveillance endoscopies and treatment of complications to prevent further progression.