Acid Reflux (GERD) Care in Mesa and Chandler, AZ

Name: AZ Gastro Care
Rating: 4.6

Acid reflux, also known as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), is a common but often uncomfortable condition that can significantly impact your quality of life. At AZ Gastro Care, our experienced gastroenterologists in Mesa and Chandler are dedicated to providing personalized care to help manage your acid reflux and relieve your symptoms.

What Is Acid Reflux?

Acid reflux occurs when stomach acid flows back into the esophagus, irritating its lining and leading to symptoms like heartburn, regurgitation, and sometimes difficulty swallowing. If left untreated, GERD can cause complications such as esophagitis, ulcers, or even Barrett’s esophagus, a condition that can increase the risk of esophageal cancer.

Common Causes of Acid Reflux

Several factors can contribute to the development of acid reflux, including:

Hiatal Hernia: When part of the stomach pushes through the diaphragm into the chest cavity, it allows acid to flow back into the esophagus.
Dietary Habits: Large meals, late-night eating, and consuming trigger foods like spicy, fatty, or acidic items can exacerbate symptoms.
Certain Foods and Drinks: Common culprits include citrus, tomatoes, chocolate, caffeine, alcohol, and carbonated beverages.
Obesity: Excess body weight can increase abdominal pressure, making it easier for stomach acid to move into the esophagus.
Pregnancy: Hormonal changes and the growing fetus can cause or worsen acid reflux.
Medications: Certain drugs, including aspirin, NSAIDs, and blood pressure medications, may relax the lower esophageal sphincter or increase acid production.
Lifestyle Factors: Smoking, lack of physical activity, and lying down soon after eating can contribute to GERD.

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Symptoms of Acid Reflux

Common symptoms of acid reflux include:

Heartburn: A burning sensation in your chest or throat, often after meals.
Regurgitation: A sour or bitter-tasting liquid or food that comes back up into your throat or mouth.
Chest Pain: Particularly after eating or when lying down.
Difficulty Swallowing: A feeling of food being stuck in your throat.
Sore Throat: Chronic irritation in the throat, hoarseness, or a persistent cough.
Feeling of a Lump in Your Throat: A sensation that something is stuck in your throat.

If you experience these symptoms frequently, it’s important to seek medical care. Chronic acid reflux can cause long-term damage to the esophagus.

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Diagnosing Acid Reflux at AZ Gastro Care

At AZ Gastro Care, we take a thorough approach to diagnosing acid reflux.

Our specialists will review your symptoms and medical history and may recommend tests such as:

Endoscopy: To visually examine your esophagus for signs of damage or inflammation.
pH Monitoring: To measure the amount of acid in your esophagus.
Esophageal Manometry: To assess the function of the lower esophageal sphincter and esophagus muscles.

Treatment Options for Acid Reflux

Our gastroenterologists offer comprehensive care for managing GERD, from lifestyle modifications to advanced treatments.

Lifestyle and Dietary Modifications:

Avoiding trigger foods (spicy, acidic, fatty foods, caffeine, alcohol).
Eating smaller meals more frequently.
Losing weight if overweight.
Elevating the head of your bed to reduce nighttime symptoms.
Avoiding lying down immediately after meals.

Medications:

Antacids: To neutralize stomach acid.
H2 Blockers and Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs): To reduce acid production.
Prokinetics: To improve the motility of the esophagus and stomach, preventing reflux.

Advanced Procedures:

Endoscopy: Used not only for diagnosis but also to treat complications like esophageal strictures.
Surgery: For severe cases that don’t respond to medication, surgical options like Nissen fundoplication may be considered to strengthen the lower esophageal sphincter.

Long-Term GERD Management and Support

Acid reflux can often be managed effectively with the right treatment plan, but chronic GERD may require ongoing care. At AZ Gastro Care, we partner with our patients to provide long-term support, offering regular follow-ups and adjusting treatment plans as needed. Our goal is to help you live comfortably and free from the disruptive symptoms of GERD.

Why Choose AZ Gastro Care?

At AZ Gastro Care, we understand the impact acid reflux can have on your daily life. Our board-certified specialists in Mesa and Chandler offer compassionate, expert care tailored to your specific needs. With a focus on patient education and personalized treatment, we’re here to help you take control of your digestive health.

Get Relief from Acid Reflux Today

Don’t let acid reflux disrupt your life. Contact AZ Gastro Care to schedule a consultation with one of our skilled gastroenterologists. We’ll help you understand the root cause of your symptoms and guide you through the best treatment options available. Call us today or request an appointment online.