Gastroesophageal reflux disease, or GERD, is diagnosed when heartburn or acid reflux occurs 3-4 times weekly or if symptoms are uncontrolled, require ongoing treatment with medicines, or produce damage (or possible damage) to the esophagus or respiratory tract.
Complications of GERD include esophagitis (erosions or ulcers in the esophagus), difficulty swallowing due to strictures (scarring), Barrett’s esophagus and esophageal cancer. If you or a loved one suspect you may have GERD, you can rely on our specialists at Northeast Georgia Physicians Group (NGPG) Heartburn & Swallowing for expert diagnosis and treatment.
What are the symptoms of GERD?
While acid reflux is the most common, there are several other GERD symptoms that can occur as well. Some of the other common symptoms of GERD may include:
- Hoarseness or sore throat
- Heartburn
- Chest pain
- Regurgitation
- Frequent swallowing
- Asthma or asthma-like symptoms
- Persistent cough
- Sleep disruption
- Bloating
- Excessive clearing of the throat
- Intolerance of certain foods
- Dental erosions
- Gum disease or inflammation
What causes GERD?
GERD is caused by chronic acid reflux that happens when the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) is weakened, allowing the acid to flow into the esophagus from your stomach. Occasional acid reflux is typically caused by a relaxed LES from things like laying down after eating, but GERD occurs when the LES is relaxed too frequently, often caused by underlying conditions or issues. Some common causes of GERD include:
- Having a hiatal hernia
- Being pregnant
- Being obese
- Certain birth defects
- Surgery in the chest or abdomen
- Taking certain medications
Who’s at risk for GERD?
Although anyone can develop GERD, some people are at a higher risk than others. Some common risk factors include:
- Aging
- Obesity
- Smoking
- Pregnancy
- Drinking alcohol
- Family history
- Sedentary lifestyle
How is GERD diagnosed?
At NGPG Heartburn & Swallowing we diagnose GERD using a variety of tests and quick diagnostic procedures. Some of the ways that we diagnose GERD include:
- Esophageal manometry: Esophageal manometry, also known as motility testing, is a pressure measuring test of the esophagus. This allows us to see if the esophageal muscles are squeezing properly and whether the valve mechanism is functioning.
- pH monitoring: We perform pH monitoring using a capsule and a small computer. Your provider will insert the capsule during an upper endoscopy, and use it to record episodes of acid reflux on a tiny computer worn on your belt.
- Upper endoscopy: During an upper endoscopy, a small scope is inserted into the patient’s mouth and down the esophagus, enabling the physician to obtain biopsies, perform procedures and diagnose issues.
- Esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD): EGD involves inserting an endoscope into the mouth to visualize the esophagus, stomach and duodenum.
How is GERD treated?
For some patients, GERD can be successfully managed by changes to diet and lifestyle along with prescription medication. However, all patients that are managing GERD symptoms through these methods should undergo an EGD to ensure significant damage hasn’t already occurred. For many patients with GERD, surgery can be the safest option with the best outcomes. Our surgeons at NGPG Heartburn & Swallowing are experts in the management of GERD and can provide complete evaluation and treatment. Some surgical treatment options we offer include:
- Laparoscopic fundoplication: Minimally invasive laparoscopic fundoplication can effectively control GERD. Our surgeons are expert in this field, with the experience of hundreds of successful surgeries for GERD and hiatal hernia repair.
- LINX procedure: This procedure, also called a laparoscopic magnetic sphincter augmentation, offers control of GERD by use of a special implant.
- Bariatric surgery: Morbidly obese patients may, in some cases, be recommended for a bariatric procedure to control their reflux and treat dangerous weight gain.
Choose NGPG for GERD & Heartburn Treatment
At NGPG Heartburn & Swallowing we offer fully integrated care and disease management for individuals suffering from esophageal disorders. This unique practice, led by general surgeon and heartburn and swallowing specialist, Dr. Casey Graybeal, offers both patient evaluation and treatment.
We do all diagnostics and testing in-house and recommend a treatment plan for you based on intimate knowledge of your history and issue. If you or a loved one have symptoms or a diagnosis of GERD, you can rely on our specialists at NGPG Heartburn & Swallowing for expert care.