If you have frequent heartburn, don't ignore it. You may have acid reflux disease, or GERD, a serious but manageable GI condition. At Brookhaven Gastroenterology Associates, our team of seven gastroenterologists helps many Suffolk County and East Patchogue NY patients manage heartburn. Learn more here.

What is heartburn?

Medline Plus reports that heartburn is really a symptom of an underlying condition called acid reflux. With acid reflux, stomach contents and acid back up into the esophagus, causing pain in the chest and a characteristic burning sensation. Occurring more than twice a week, acid reflux is called GERD, or gastroesophageal reflux disease.

Left untreated, GERD permanently damages the esophagus, causing problems with swallowing and even a pre-cancerous condition called Barrett's Esophagus. Also, you may feel that food sticks in your throat, or that your throat is continuously sore and your voice hoarse.

We can help

At Brookhaven Gastroenterology Associates in Suffolk County, NY, our professional team differentiates common heartburn from acid reflux or GERD. A minimally-invasive test, called endoscopy, visualizes your food pipe and allows your gastroenterologist to take real-time photos and videos of your upper GI tract.

With his findings, he'll put together an effective treatment plan. Managing your heartburn symptoms limits damage to your esophagus and decreases your risk of GI cancer, says Harvard Health.

Managing heartburn

Many people who have heartburn are overweight. A big belly puts pressure on your stomach and the esophageal sphincter. Accordingly, losing weight reduces pressure and relieves heartburn.

Also, your Suffolk County heartburn specialist may advise:

• Proton pump inhibitors or H2 agonists in pill form to reduce stomach acid
• Sleeping with your head raised
• Eating smaller meals more frequently
• Waiting to exercise after you eat
• Avoiding heavy meals before bedtime
• Avoiding fatty and/or acidic foods such as chocolate, tomato sauce, garlic, dairy products, and other foods which increase stomach acid
• Wear clothing which fits loosely at the waist

Enjoy your best gastrointestinal health

Control heartburn, acid reflux, or GERD. Learn what works for you with the help of the professional team at Brookhaven Gastroenterology Associates in Suffolk County and East Patchogue NY. Call for a consultation with one of our caring gastroenterologists. You can feel better. Phone (631) 289-0300 today.