Heartburn and reflux

Reflux, also known as acid reflux, occurs when stomach acid travels back up the esophagus and into the mouth. Heartburn, a burning sensation in the chest, is a symptom of reflux. Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is the result of a weak muscle within the esophagus, called the lower esophageal sphincter, which acts as a reflux barrier within the body.

Heartburn and acid reflux treatment options are available at Methodist Hospital Specialty and Transplant. We've designed a program specifically to diagnose and treat your heartburn and reflux issues.

There are multiple risk factors that can play a role in developing heartburn or reflux symptoms. Some of these include:

• Being overweight
• Performing jobs that require stooping, bending or heavy lifting
• Being 40 years old or older
• Pregnancy
• Diabetes
• Smoking
• Diet

Certain lifestyle choices, including a diet of alcohol, citrus, caffeinated beverages, tomato-based foods, chocolate, spicy foods and peppermint

Heartburn is a common symptom that affects about 20 percent of Americans. However, it is also a key symptom and indicator of GERD, especially if your heartburn:

• Affects your sleep
• Has occurred regularly for several years
• Occurs twice or more a week
• Persists and becomes more severe

Aside from chronic heartburn, GERD may also manifest in other symptoms, like difficulty swallowing, shortness of breath, wheezing, chest pain, a chronic, non-productive dry cough, achalasia (failure of the lower esophageal sphincter to open when swallowing), acid reflux, asthma, dysphagia, heartburn, hiatal hernia, indigestion and regurgitation.

If you have heartburn, nausea and other symptoms of GERD or acid reflux, contact us today at (210) 575-0355 to schedule an appointment with one of our specialists.

Take a few moments to go through a quick checklist of qualifying questions to understand if GERD treatment is an option for you.

• Do you experience an uncomfortable feeling behind the breastbone that seems to be moving upward from the stomach?
• Do you have a burning sensation in the back of your throat?
• Do you experience a bitter acid taste in your mouth?
• Do you often experience these problems after meals?
• Do you experience heartburn or acid indigestion two or more times per week?
• Do you find that antacids only provide temporary relief from your symptoms?
• Do you take prescription medication to treat heartburn, but still have symptoms?

Did you answer “yes” to two or more of the questions above? Call us today to speak to a team member about your next step with a specialist at (210) 575-0355.