How your ENT doctor in Garland, TX, can help you get relief from acid reflux
Occasional feelings of heartburn are common and normal, but if your discomfort is more than occasional, it could be something else. You could have acid reflux, and if it goes untreated, your acid reflux could turn into gastroesophageal reflux disease or GERD.
Dr. James Maddox in Garland, TX, provides a wide range of ENT services, including treatment of acid reflux.
So, what causes acid reflux? There is a sphincter muscle which separates your esophagus from your stomach. It functions to prevent stomach acid from backflowing into your esophagus.
When the sphincter muscle doesn’t close properly or completely, stomach acid backs up into your throat, causing acid reflux symptoms.
If acid reflux goes undiagnosed and untreated, it can turn into the chronic condition known as gastroesophageal reflux disease, or GERD. Unfortunately, GERD can lead to a wide variety of serious problems, including damage to your esophagus or esophageal cancer.
So, how do you know if you have acid reflux? These are some of the signs and symptoms to pay attention to:
- Chronic sore throats
- Chronic bad breath
- Frequent wheezing or dry coughing
- Nausea and vomiting
- Chest or abdominal pain
- Sensitive teeth due to eroding tooth enamel
Diet and lifestyle modifications are a great way to start on the road to acid reflux relief. Remember to:
- Take over-the-counter antacids
- Avoid lying flat after eating
- Avoid eating acidic or spicy foods
- Eat smaller meals and avoid eating large amounts of food
For moderate to severe acid reflux, you need to visit your ENT doctor. Your doctor may recommend a screening procedure known as an upper endoscopy to determine the health of your esophagus. In addition to an endoscopy, common professional treatments for acid reflux and GERD include:
- Prescription medications to reduce stomach acid
- Professional dietary and nutritional counseling
Protect the health of your esophagus by paying attention to acid reflux. More than just occasional heartburn could mean there is something more serious going on. Your ENT doctor can help.
To learn more about acid reflux and GERD treatment options, talk with an expert. Call Dr. James Maddox in Garland, TX. You can reach him in the office by calling (972) 272-5555, so call now.