Acid Reflux

Stoneleigh Medical Group

Gastroenterology & Internal Medicine located in Carmel, NY, Brewster, NY, Pawling, NY, & Jefferson Valley, NY

You may experience acid reflux after a big holiday meal, but if your heartburn occurs regularly, you may have a more chronic condition called gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Westchester Putnam Gastroenterology in Carmel, New York, has experts in family medicine and gastroenterology. Together, they can help you get relief from acid reflux. Call the office most convenient to you, or make an appointment using the online scheduling tool.

Acid Reflux Q&A

What is acid reflux?

Acid reflux occurs when the acidic contents of your stomach regurgitate up into your esophagus because of a weakened or relaxed lower esophageal sphincter (LES).

The LES is a group of muscles at the lowest portion of your esophagus. When you swallow, your LES opens up to allow food to pass into your stomach and then quickly closes.

However, certain conditions may affect the normal function of your LES, causing acid reflux, such as overeating, wearing tight clothing, or taking certain medication.

Though it’s not uncommon to have acid reflux from time to time, if you have heartburn two or more times a week, you may have gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).

What is GERD?

GERD is a chronic version of acid reflux. Though not always a serious health concern, when left untreated, GERD may cause health problems such as ulcers or scarring of your esophagus.

Chronic GERD is also a risk factor for the development of Barrett’s esophagus and esophageal cancer.

Westchester Putnam Gastroenterology is a state-of-the-art practice with access to advanced diagnostic tools, including high-definition upper endoscopic procedures.

When you come in for an acid reflux evaluation, your provider may request an upper endoscopy to evaluate the lining of your esophagus to confirm or rule out health issues like Barrett’s esophagus and esophageal cancer.

What are the symptoms of acid reflux?

Symptoms of acid reflux and GERD vary in type and severity. Heartburn, a burning sensation in your throat or chest, is the most common symptom.

Other symptoms of acid reflux include:

Indigestion
Feeling like something is stuck in your throat
Bad taste in the back of your mouth
Bad breath
Regurgitation
Nausea
Pain when swallowing
Difficulty swallowing
Laryngitis
Chronic coughing

When patients experience less typical symptoms without heartburn, the experts at Westchester Putnam Gastroenterology may diagnose you with layrngo-pharyngeal reflux (LPR) or “silent reflux.”

How is acid reflux treated?

Treatment for your acid reflux depends on the severity and frequency of your symptoms. Initially, Westchester Putnam Gastroenterology may recommend lifestyle changes to alleviate your symptoms, such as:

Weight loss
Smoking cessation
Diet modification
Limiting intake of caffeine and alcohol

If your acid reflux persists after implementing lifestyle changes, your provider may recommend acid-reducing medications.

For relief from acid reflux from the experts at Westchester Putnam Gastroenterology, call or request an appointment online today.