Dr. Ilyas Memon and the staff of Greater Houston Gastroenterology are here for you if you're suffering from symptoms of acid reflux and GERD. Symptoms are uncomfortable and the more they occur, they can really interfere with your daily activities. Keep reading about acid reflux and come see us if heartburn is interrupting your life.
At the bottom of your esophagus, there is a valve called the lower esophageal sphincter that separates it from the stomach. This valve should be closed to keep stomach contents from flowing backward. With acid reflux disorder, this valve remains open when it shouldn't allowing stomach contents to flow back up the esophagus. Acid reflux can cause the following symptoms:
These symptoms are all uncomfortable and if they persist, you may even have GERD. GERD is characterized by chronic acid reflux and heartburn. If you're experiencing these symptoms, see your doctor in The Woodlands, TX, or Willis, TX, for acid reflux treatment.
Acid reflux treatment is typically a combination of medications and lifestyle changes. Losing weight and quitting smoking are two things that can lower your risk of heartburn. Avoiding extra fatty foods and spicy or acidic foods can help you avoid symptoms, too. Medications can provide some relief to your symptoms, but the most important thing to improve symptoms long-term will be adjusting your diet and embracing healthy eating. This can seem daunting if you've never done it, but we are here to support you through the change.
If you make significant changes and continue to have symptoms more than twice a week, you may have GERD and should see your doctor for treatment. Dr. Ilyas Memon and the staff of Greater Houston Gastroenterology can help you with acid reflux treatment in The Woodlands, TX, and Willis, TX. Contact us for an appointment in The Woodlands, TX, at (281) 783-6459, and in Willis, TX, at (281) 764-9500.