Nov. 17, 2017 – Did you know that indigestion is often a sign of
an underlying problem rather than a condition of its own? If you have
frequent heartburn and indigestion, you may have
gastro-esophageal
reflux disease or GERD, a condition where acid from your stomach flows
back into your esophagus causing discomfort and pain. GERD can be a frustrating
condition that can affect your quality of life, but there are treatments
available.
To bring attention to this serious, but treatable condition that impacts
millions of Americans, Southeast Georgia Health System is utilizing National
GERD Awareness Week, Nov. 19-25, as a reminder for people experiencing
GERD symptoms to consult with their physicians to help make their holidays,
and every day, comfortable and symptom-free.
Huitt E. Mattox, M.D., gastroenterologist, Southeast Georgia Physician
Associates-Gastroenterology, a strategic affiliate of the Health System,
says that recurring discomfort and getting only temporary relief with
over-the-counter medications are some reasons why people seek the help
from a gastroenterologist. He explains, “When someone comes to us
complaining of acid reflux, we first evaluate the patient to determine
if it is actually acid reflux or if it’s really another condition
with similar symptoms, such as gallbladder disease or cardiac-related
chest pain.”
Symptoms of GERD
Chronic heartburn is the most common symptom of GERD. However, acid regurgitation
(refluxed material into the mouth) is another common symptom. There are
also numerous less common symptoms other than heartburn that may be associated
with GERD. These may include:
- A sour taste
- A sudden excess of saliva
- Bad breath
- Belching
- Chronic irritation in the throat
-
Chronic
sore throat
- Difficulty or pain when swallowing
- Erosion of the enamel of the teeth
- Hoarseness in the morning
- Inflammation of the gums
- Laryngitis
- The sensation of food sticking in the esophagus
How is GERD diagnosed and treated?
An upper endoscopy is the most common diagnostic procedure to evaluate
acid reflux, Mattox explains. This involves inserting a long thin tube
with a light and video camera into the patient’s throat and down
the digestive tract so it can be examined. Patients are given a local
anesthetic and an IV sedative to keep them comfortable during the procedure.
Another common procedure is a barium swallow, a series of x-rays that
are conducted while the patient drinks a barium sulfate liquid, which
shows up as a contrast on the x-rays.
A fewer number of patients may also need a pH test, which measures the
acidity in the esophagus. During a pH test, a small capsule is placed
on the wall of the esophagus during an endoscopy. It transmits data to
a pager-sized receiver that the patient wears for 48 hours. Several days
later, the capsule falls off the esophagus wall and passes safely through
the digestive tract.
Gastroenterologists will also make medication adjustments and suggest lifestyle
changes, including diet and exercise. “Treatment plans are tailored
to each patient and their situation,” Mattox says. “In a small
number of cases, surgery may be recommended.”
Enjoy your holidays and every day
GERD can be a frustrating condition that can affect your quality of life,
but there are treatments available. A visit to a gastroenterologist may
help you enjoy your holidays, and every day, by diagnosing your discomfort
and creating a treatment plan designed for your condition.
Southeast Georgia Physician
Associates-Gastroenterology,
has offices in Brunswick and Saint Marys. For more information or to schedule
an appointment, call 912-267-0058.