Should I See A Gastroenterologist For GERD?

What is the difference between acid reflux and GERD

The terms heartburn, acid reflux, and GERD are often used interchangeably.

They actually have very different meanings.

Acid reflux is a common medical condition that can range in severity from mild to serious.

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is the chronic, more severe form of acid reflux..

Does Gerd ever go away

GERD is a potentially serious condition, and it will not go away on its own. Untreated GERD can lead to inflammation of the esophagus and cause complications like ulcers, strictures and increased risk of Barrett’s esophagus, which is a precursor to esophageal cancer.

What test confirms GERD

An endoscopy with biopsy is one of the most common tests physicians use to confirm a diagnosis of GERD. To have the procedure, you may first need a referral from your primary care physician to see a gastroenterologist. The gastroenterologist will examine your esophagus and take a tissue sample for testing.

What is the best treatment for GERD

GERD Treatment: MedicationAntacids. Over-the-counter antacids are best for intermittent and relatively infrequent symptoms of reflux. … Histamine blockers. Histamine 2 (H2) blockers are drugs that help lower acid secretion. … Proton pump inhibitors. … Prokinetic agents.

How does Gerd make you feel

GERD can give you a burning feeling in your mouth. It can cause you to have a sore throat or to have trouble swallowing. You may feel like food is sticking in your throat. GERD may also make you feel like you’re choking or that your throat is tight.

What causes GERD to flare up

Eating large meals or eating late at night. Eating certain foods (triggers) such as fatty or fried foods. Drinking certain beverages, such as alcohol or coffee. Taking certain medications, such as aspirin.

Can a gastroenterologist help with GERD

Most doctors can treat GERD. Or you may want to visit an internist–a doctor who specializes in internal medicine–or a gastroenterologist–a doctor who treats diseases of the stomach and intestines. Doctors usually recommend lifestyle and dietary changes to relieve heartburn. Many people with GERD also need medication.

How long does Gerd take to heal

If allowed to continue unabated, symptoms can cause considerable physical damage. One manifestation, reflux esophagitis (RO), creates visible breaks in the distal esophageal mucosa. To heal RO, potent acid suppression for 2 to 8 weeks is needed, and in fact, healing rates improve as acid suppression increases.

What can I drink to soothe my esophagus

Chamomile, licorice, slippery elm, and marshmallow may make better herbal remedies to soothe GERD symptoms. Licorice helps increase the mucus coating of the esophageal lining, which helps calm the effects of stomach acid.

What happens when acid reflux doesn’t go away

A few potential concerns that can result from untreated GERD or frequent heartburn are Barrett’s Esophagus and potentially a type of cancer called adenocarcinoma. Barrett’s esophagus occurs when the esophageal lining changes, becoming more like the tissue that lines the intestines.

Can PPI make GERD worse

If a PPI is stopped, people who have been taking it may find they have even worse acid reflux than before. This happens because the PPIs are good at shutting down acid production.

How does a gastroenterologist diagnose GERD

Your doctor inserts a thin, flexible tube equipped with a light and camera (endoscope) down your throat, to examine the inside of your esophagus and stomach. Test results can often be normal when reflux is present, but an endoscopy may detect inflammation of the esophagus (esophagitis) or other complications.

What happens at first gastroenterologist appointment for GERD

Your first appointment with your gastroenterologist will probably take 30-60 minutes. They’ll ask you about your symptoms, medical history, and any treatments you’ve tried. Other visits could be shorter.

Can Gerd be cured permanently

Yes, most cases of acid reflux, sometimes referred to as gastroesophageal reflux disease, or GERD, can be cured.

What foods neutralize stomach acid

Foods that may help reduce your symptomsVegetables. Vegetables are naturally low in fat and sugar, and they help reduce stomach acid. … Ginger. … Oatmeal. … Noncitrus fruits. … Lean meats and seafood. … Egg whites. … Healthy fats.

Should I see an ENT or gastroenterologist for GERD

It is possible to have LPR without having GERD, and it is also possible to have GERD without LPR. That is why your otolaryngologist (ENT doctor) may recommend treatment with reflux medications even though a gastroenterologist may have told you that it is not necessary.

Is GERD a lifelong disease

GERD is a chronic condition. Once it begins, it usually is life-long. If there is an injury to the lining of the esophagus (esophagitis), this also is a chronic condition.

What is the safest drug for acid reflux

If you have mild reflux symptoms that occur less than two times a week, you can start with a low dose of famotidine (Pepcid) or cimetidine (Tagamet). Ranitidine (Zantac), another H2 blocker, was recently removed from the market because it was found to contain higher-than-acceptable levels of cancer-causing substances.