What You Should Know About Acid Reflux, Heartburn & Gerd

Did you know that 1 out of 5 people in the United States experience heartburn or acid reflux on a weekly basis?

Acid reflux is the most common gastrointestinal related diagnosis made by physicians nationwide. It is estimated that pain and discomfort from acid reflux impacts more than 80 million people at least twice per month in the U.S. When left untreated, reflux can lead to serious conditions.

The Metabolic & Bariatric Program at Valley Health can help find a treatment option best for you. First, let’s look at the conditions and their symptoms.

What Is Acid Reflux, Heartburn, and Gerd?

Acid reflux occurs when liquid stomach contents go up into the esophagus. The burning feeling in our chest when this occurs is known as heartburn. Frequent reflux can lead to gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).

Other symptoms can include: difficulty swallowing, indigestion, and a sensation of a lump in your throat.

What Causes Chronic Heartburn?

There are some health factors that can lead to GERD, including if you:

• Are overweight or obese
• Have Hiatal hernia
• Have weakness in the lower esophageal sphincter (LES)
• Are pregnant
• Drink alcohol or smoke
• Take medications like: antihistamines, painkillers, and antidepressants

What Conditions Are Treated?

The Valley Health Metabolic & Bariatric Program offers state of the art technology and the latest treatment options for heartburn related illnesses, including:

• Diagnostic Tests
• Endoscopic Treatment
• Surgical Therapies

You can read more about each treatment option at www.valleyhealthlink.com/GERD.

Resources

If you think you are experiencing one of the conditions listed above, contact our office for additional information.

www.valleyhealthlink.com/GERD

Address: 1870 Amherst St. Medical Office Building (MOB) 1, Suite F Winchester, VA 22601

Phone Number: (540) 536-0010

Email: wmcbari@valleyhealthlink.com

Fax: (540) 536-0061