The medical office of Dr. Ilyas Memon of Greater Houston Gastroenterology provides care for gastrointestinal health. They provide acid reflux treatment in the Woodlands, Conroe, TX area, so you can improve your daily life.
According to Medical News Today, acid reflux occurs when stomach acid backs up into the food pipe or esophagus. When the gastroesophageal sphincter valve does not close properly, acid or food is backed up into the esophagus.
One symptom of acid reflux is chest pain, which is felt when the acid is brought back up into the food pipe. This is commonly known as heartburn, which usually happens after eating. Other symptoms of acid reflux include the following:
Some risk factors for acid reflux are obesity, smoking, and low exercise. There are some causes of acid reflux including caffeine, alcohol, a diet with low fiber, high amounts of table salt, or eating large meals. Another cause could be lying down within 2-3 hours of eating a meal.
It's beneficial to get acid reflux treatment and not ignore any symptoms. If these symptoms are long-term, they can result in certain illnesses, including esophagitis, ulcers, esophageal spasms, or esophageal cancer. If you live in the Woodlands, Conroe, TX area, it is best to seek treatment from a gastroenterologist like Dr. Ilyas Memon.
The National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK) explains what types of acid reflux treatment doctors provide in the Woodlands, Conroe, TX area. Some treatments include dietary and lifestyle changes to reduce symptoms. The lifestyle changes include weight-loss strategies and stopping smoking. Other remedies might include sleep positions that elevate your head.
Over-the-counter remedies, like antacids, are beneficial as well. The doctor can also prescribe some medications, like Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPI) or H2 blockers that reduce the production of acid in the stomach. These medications can reduce the damage done to the stomach by acid reflux. The PPIs can be used for the long-term treatment of acid reflux symptoms that can heal the esophagus. Surgery is also an option, including fundoplication, a common procedure for the stomach and esophagus. Another possible operation is bariatric surgery for weight loss and acid reflux issues simultaneously.
If you would like to learn more about acid reflux treatment in the Woodlands, Conroe, TX area, call Dr. Memon of Greater Houston Gastroenterology at either of the two offices: The Woodlands, (281) 783-6459 and Conroe, (281) 764-9500.