Acid reflux is a digestive complaint that causes a burning pain in your chest (heartburn). The pain occurs because stomach acid flows up your esophagus (refluxes), inflaming the tissues.
Stomach acid contains powerful, corrosive chemicals that help break down the food you eat. It doesn’t usually harm the stomach because the lining is built to withstand it, but the esophagus isn’t.
The lower esophageal sphincter (LES) at the lower end of the esophagus usually stops acid from refluxing. The LES opens when you swallow, allowing food into your stomach, then closes to keep everything contained. If it fails, acid reflux develops.
Acid reflux’s primary symptom is heartburn, but you might also experience any or all of the following:
Most people get an attack of acid reflux occasionally, usually after overfilling their stomachs with rich food and/or alcohol. The odd episode is nothing to worry about, but repeated reflux can damage the tissues lining your esophagus.
Without treatment, this chronic condition (gastroesophageal reflux disease or GERD) can cause tissue changes (Barrett’s esophagus) that could result in esophageal cancer.
Acid reflux causes include the following:
Pregnancy often causes acid reflux that worsens as the baby develops, putting increasing pressure on your internal organs.
Dr. Padda can quickly diagnose acid reflux based on your symptoms. If you have symptoms of GERD or Barrett’s esophagus, he may perform an upper endoscopy (esophagogastroduodenoscopy).
This procedure involves inserting an endoscope (slim, flexible pipe fitted with a tiny camera) into your throat so Dr. Padda can view the inflamed tissues. He can also take a biopsy (tissue sample) for lab analysis.
Addressing the unhealthy habits triggering acid reflux is key to recovery. For example, cutting out unhealthy fats, avoiding foods and drinks that aggravate your acid reflux, losing excess weight, and quitting smoking.
Over-the-counter antacids ease mild acid reflux symptoms. Dr. Padda might prescribe medicines like proton pump inhibitors if your symptoms are more severe or don’t improve with lifestyle changes.
Call the office to arrange an acid reflux evaluation or request an appointment online today.