When to See a Specialist About Your Acid Reflux

According to the National Institute of Health, GERD affects up to 20% of people in the United States. GERD is a long-term disease that causes heartburn and acid reflux, but you can have acid reflux without GERD.

Most people experience some degree of acid reflux after consuming certain foods. Still, if you're living with it more often than not, it may be time to seek professional help.

At Texas Digestive Disease Consultants, Dr. Ilyas Memon and his team provide acid reflux treatments when you’re tired of living with the pain. Dr. Memon is an experienced gastroenterologist offering a range of treatments for conditions such as abdominal pain, constipation, and diarrhea.

Understanding acid reflux

The stomach contains hydrochloric acid, which is essential for breaking down the food you eat. There’s a valve in the stomach that prevents acid from leaving the stomach, but when it malfunctions, you get acid reflux.

People with acid reflux have stomach acid that backs up into the esophagus, causing a burning sensation in the stomach and chest. Other symptoms of acid reflux include the following:

• A sour taste in the mouth
• Food contents coming up into the throat
• A burning sensation in the abdomen and chest
• A sore throat
• Nausea
• Non-cardiac chest pain

Various factors contribute to acid reflux, and it’s not always a permanent condition. For example, some people experience acid reflux after eating a large meal or consuming certain spicy foods.

Other reasons for acid reflux include smoking, obesity, pregnancy, and conditions like a hiatal hernia. Some medications can also cause acid reflux.

Signs you should see a doctor

If you experience acid reflux that occurs after a large meal or eating something spicy, you may not have a significant issue, as long as it resolves. However, acid reflux that occurs without a known cause and doesn't improve warrants a trip to our office.

You should also see Dr. Memon if you experience heartburn that occurs at least twice a week for two weeks or more. It’s also essential to seek treatment if acid reflux interferes with your normal activities.

If you experience other symptoms along with acid reflux that are worrisome, it’s also essential to seek treatment. Other symptoms may include trouble swallowing, unexplained weight loss, or frequent vomiting.

You can alleviate acid reflux with over-the-counter antacids. Still, if they don’t work or reflux persists, it’s a good idea to have an evaluation.

Sometimes, acid reflux symptoms resemble a heart attack, which is scary. If you notice you have chest pain or shortness of breath, even if you think it’s acid reflux, it’s critical to get help immediately.

At your appointment, Dr. Memon discusses your symptoms, how long they’ve been occurring, and any other gastrointestinal problems you may experience. Depending on what he finds, he may recommend lifestyle changes or medications to control symptoms.

To learn more about our acid reflux treatments, call one of our conveniently located offices in Texas or request a consultation on our website.