GERD and Acid Reflux Treatment in Vijayawada

Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) is a chronic condition which affects the digestive track. The most significant impact of this disorder is that stomach acid or, also at times the stomach content, flows back into the esophagus, causing irritation and discomfort as per Acid reflux doctor in Vijayawada. This reflux occurs due to a weakened lower esophageal sphincter (LES), the ring of muscle that normally prevents stomach contents from entering the esophagus. If untreated, GERD can lead to complications such as esophagitis (inflammation of the esophagus), strictures, Barrett's esophagus, and an increased risk of esophageal cancer. Diagnosis is often based on symptoms, but additional tests like endoscopy, pH monitoring, and manometry can be used for confirmation. Management typically involves lifestyle modifications such as weight loss, dietary changes, and elevating the head of the bed, along with medications like antacids, H2-receptor antagonists, and proton pump inhibitors. Procedures such as Upper GI endoscopy in Vijayawada at one of the Best Gastro Hospital in Vijayawada can help with diagnosis and treatment.

Symptoms of GERD:

  1. Heartburn, a burning sensation in the chest often after eating or at night, needing Heartburn treatment in Vijayawada
  2. Regurgitation
  3. Chest pain that may mimic angina;
  4. Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia);
  5. Chronic cough or sore throat
  6. Hoarseness or laryngitis;
  7. The sensation of a lump in the throat (globus sensation);
  8. Nausea or vomiting;
  9. Bloating and feeling of fullness;
  10. Dental erosion or damage due to acid exposure;
  11. Wheezing or coughing, especially at night;
  12. Bad breath. Symptoms may worsen after meals, when lying down, or bending over.
GERD and Acid Reflux Treatment in Vijayawada

Acid Reflux:

Acid reflux, also known as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), occurs when stomach acid flows back into the esophagus, the tube connecting the mouth to the stomach. This backflow happens due to a weakened or malfunctioning lower esophageal sphincter (LES), a ring of muscle that normally prevents stomach contents from rising as per Gastro doctor in Vijayawada.

Signs:

  1. Heartburn - a burning sensation in the chest, often after eating or at night.
  2. Regurgitation
  3. Chest pain - discomfort that may mimic heart attack symptoms.
  4. Difficulty swallowing - sensation of food sticking in the throat or chest.
  5. Sour or bitter taste in the mouth.
  6. Long lasting cough
  7. Sore throat
  8. Bloating and burping - feeling of fullness and frequent belching.
  9. Nausea - sometimes accompanied by vomiting.
  10. Wheezing or asthma-like symptoms - due to airway irritation.

For more details, consult Dr. Sreedevi Atluri at American-Gastro care in Vijayawada.