Gastro-Esophageal Reflux Disease in Atlanta
Are you suffering from Gastro-Esophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) in Atlanta? Don’t worry. Help is available. You can find it at GI Specialists of Georgia. We are here to help you understand and treat GERD effectively. Our team of highly trained gastroenterologists can recognize and diagnose GERD before tailoring a treatment plan to your needs. Visit one of our offices in Northwest Atlanta to learn more about how we can help you manage GERD and feel like yourself again.
What is GERD?
GERD is a digestive disorder that affects the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), which is the muscle between your esophagus and stomach. The disorder causes stomach acid to flow back into the esophagus. It is an uncomfortable and potentially harmful affliction. If untreated, GERD can damage the lining of the esophagus, which may lead to other health problems.
What Are GERD’s Symptoms?
Identifying GERD symptoms is crucial for early treatment. GERD can create significant discomfort in your upper chest and make it difficult to concentrate on routine tasks. It may also cause you to lose your appetite. Among the most common GERD symptoms are:
- Heartburn
- Difficulty or painful swallowing
- The constant need to clear your throat
- Feeling that food is stuck in your throat
- Burning sensation in your mouth
- Regurgitation of stomach acid into your mouth
- A sour taste in your mouth
- Persistent cough
- Laryngitis
- New or worsening asthma
What Causes GERD?
Several factors may contribute to GERD. Many are related to lifestyle choices and eating habits. Obesity and overeating are two of the most common GERD causes. But it isn’t only overeating that plays a role. What you eat matters, too. Diets high in fatty or spicy foods can trigger GERD symptoms. Caffeine, alcohol, and chocolate may also increase your risk of GERD.
Furthermore, many pregnant women develop GERD, Due to hormonal changes and increased abdominal girth. It can also arise due to certain medications or medical conditions. When you visit GI Specialists of Georgia, we will review your medical history to identify any risk factors.
How to Diagnose GERD
You should schedule an appointment with GI Specialists of Georgia if you notice frequent GERD symptoms. If you find yourself reaching for heartburn medication multiple times a week, you should visit us for an examination and diagnosis. Following a physical exam and review of your medical history, we may perform various tests to determine the severity of your GERD and devise a treatment plan. Tests we perform to diagnose GERD include:
- Upper endoscopy
- pH monitoring
- X-rays
- Motility tests
GERD Treatment Options at GI Specialists of Georgia
Treating GERD involves lifestyle changes, medications, and sometimes surgery. We will create a plan specific to your situation and needs. Over-the-counter medications will often provide short-term relief, but we may prescribe proton pump inhibitors (PPI) or H2 blockers for long-lasting treatment. Each can reduce stomach acid production to alleviate your symptoms. Lifestyle changes including weight loss and better nutrition will also help. In severe cases, we can discuss surgical options for a permanent GERD cure.
Contact Us for GERD Services in Atlanta, GA
GI Specialists of Georgia is Northwest Atlanta’s leading provider of gastrointestinal and hepatology services. We are committed to providing cutting-edge solutions using state-of-the-art technology and years of expertise. Our staff understands the importance of your GI health and will diagnose and treat GERD with your overall well-being in mind. For your convenience, we have nine offices and three endoscopy centers in the region. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.
Schedule an Appointment with Our Atlanta-Area Gastroenterologists
Whether you’re here for an endoscopic ultrasound or a colonoscopy, we will treat you with the utmost respect and dignity. Our gastroenterologists in the Douglasville and Northwest Atlanta area believe in the importance of educating our patients on a variety of health topics, ranging from anemia to gastrointestinal infections, cirrhosis of the liver, and pancreatitis. To schedule an appointment with one of our board-certified gastroenterologists, please contact GI Specialists of Georgia today.
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