Experience lasting relief from acid reflux symptoms with advanced treatments and compassionate care from our ear, nose, and throat specialists at Southern ENT Associates.
What Causes Acid Reflux?
Hiatal Hernia:
A condition where the upper part of the stomach protrudes into the chest cavity, increasing the risk of acid reflux.
Weak Lower Esophageal Sphincter (LES):
The LES is a ring of muscle that acts as a valve between the esophagus and stomach. When it weakens, stomach acid can flow back into the esophagus.
Dietary Factors:
Certain foods and beverages, such as spicy foods, citrus fruits, caffeine, and alcohol, can trigger acid reflux symptoms.
Obesity:
Excess weight can increase pressure on the abdomen, pushing stomach contents into the esophagus.
Smoking:
Tobacco use can weaken the LES and impair the body's ability to clear stomach acid.
Pregnancy:
Hormonal changes and increased abdominal pressure during pregnancy can contribute to acid reflux symptoms.
Symptoms of Acid Reflux
- Heartburn
- Regurgitation of sour-tasting fluid
- Chest pain or discomfort
- Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia)
- Chronic cough or hoarseness
- Asthma-like symptoms, such as wheezing or shortness of breath
Testing for Acid Reflux (GERD) at Southern ENT Associates
Diagnosis of acid reflux typically involves a thorough medical history, a full physical examination, and diagnostic tests such as an upper endoscopy, esophageal pH monitoring, or esophageal manometry to assess the severity of reflux and its impact on esophageal function.
Treatments for Acid Reflux
Lifestyle Modifications:
- Dietary changes to avoid triggering foods and beverages.
- Elevating the head of the bed to reduce nighttime symptoms.
- Weight loss and smoking cessation for overweight or obese individuals.
Medications:
- Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) reduce stomach acid production.
- H2-receptor blockers to decrease acid production.
- Antacids for immediate relief of symptoms.
- Prokinetics helps the stomach empty more quickly.
Surgical Options:
- Fundoplication surgery to reinforce the lower esophageal sphincter.
- LINX device implantation to strengthen the lower esophageal sphincter.
- Endoscopic procedures like TIF (transoral incisionless fundoplication) repair the LES.
These treatments alleviate symptoms, promote healing of the esophagus, and prevent complications associated with acid reflux. Consulting with a specialist at Southern ENT Associates can help determine the most suitable treatment plan based on the underlying cause of your symptoms.
Why Choose Us?
At Southern ENT Associates, our experienced team of otolaryngologists specializes in diagnosing and treating acid reflux and its associated complications. We offer personalized care plans tailored to your needs, focusing on providing effective, long-term relief from symptoms and improving overall quality of life.
Acid Reflux FAQ
What are the common symptoms of acid reflux?
Common symptoms include heartburn, regurgitation, chest pain, difficulty swallowing, chronic cough, hoarseness, and throat clearing.
How is acid reflux diagnosed?
Diagnosis typically involves a combination of medical history review, physical examination, and diagnostic tests such as endoscopy, pH monitoring, and esophageal manometry.
Are there lifestyle changes that can help manage acid reflux?
Yes, lifestyle modifications like avoiding trigger foods, eating smaller meals, not lying down after eating, and maintaining a healthy weight can help manage acid reflux symptoms.
When should I see a doctor for acid reflux?
It's advisable to see a doctor if you experience frequent or severe symptoms of acid reflux, especially if they interfere with daily life, persist despite lifestyle changes, or are accompanied by other concerning symptoms.
What treatment options are available for acid reflux?
Treatment options include lifestyle modifications, medications (such as proton pump inhibitors, H2-receptor blockers, antacids, and prokinetics), and, in some cases, surgical procedures like fundoplication or LINX device implantation. The treatment depends on the severity and underlying cause of acid reflux, as well as individual patient factors.