Acid Reflux

Our Approach

At Franciscan Health, our gastroenterologists (gastrointestinal specialists) may recommend lifestyle changes, acid reflux medicines or surgery to treat acid reflux. Our gastrointestinal (GI) doctors personalize treatment to your symptoms and the severity of the condition.

Treatments for acid reflux

Lifestyle changes

Your GI doctor may recommend lifestyle changes to reduce acid reflux symptoms:

• Avoid foods that seem to trigger heartburn
• Avoid alcohol and smoking
• Eat smaller meals
• Elevate your head when lying in bed
• Lose excess weight
• Don't lie down after a meal
• Wear loose-fitting clothing

Medications

Over-the-counter and prescription acid reflux medicines can also prevent acid production and aid the muscles that empty your stomach. Our gastroenterologists can recommend the best medication or combination of medications to control your symptoms.

Surgery

If the acid reflux is severe or persistent, acid reflux surgery may offer relief. Our GI doctors perform both conventional and minimally invasive procedures.

How is acid reflux diagnosed?

Our gastroenterologists start with a physical exam to diagnose acid reflux. Your doctor may also order additional tests, including:

• X-ray: X-rays can show your esophagus more clearly after you drink a special solution.
• Endoscopy: During endoscopy, your GI doctor uses a flexible tube called an endoscope to see inside your esophagus. Your doctor may also take a biopsy (tissue sample) to determine if you have abnormal growths, damage or an infection.

What is acid reflux?

Acid reflux happens when stomach acid leaks into the esophagus, the tube connecting the mouth to the stomach. Weakening of the muscle (valve) that closes the stomach can cause this leaking.

Acid reflux affects people of all ages. Most experience it occasionally. In longer-lasting or severe forms, doctors call acid reflux GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease).

What triggers acid reflux?

Certain foods may trigger acid reflux, including:

• Caffeinated drinks
• Chocolate
• Citrus fruits
• Fried, fatty or spicy food
• Garlic
• Onions

Acid reflux symptoms

Acid reflux can cause:

• Acid regurgitation
• A feeling of food stuck in your throat
• Bad breath
• Chest pain
• Coughing
• Heartburn
• Hoarseness in the morning
• Indigestion
• Trouble swallowing, a tight throat or choking feeling