Acid Reflux Treatment in Columbus, GA
Acid Reflux and Heartburn Care for Patients Throughout West Central Georgia and East Central Alabama
Acid reflux, which often leads to heartburn, is a type of indigestion in which stomach acid and undigested food regurgitate back into the esophagus, causing an uncomfortable burning sensation in the esophagus and chest.
Many patients regularly suffer from acid reflux and symptoms like heartburn. In fact, 10% of people in the United States experience acid reflux on a daily basis, and roughly 25% of pregnant women experience it regularly throughout their pregnancy.
If you need acid reflux treatment or heartburn relief in Columbus, GA, or any surrounding communities, turn to Southeastern Gastroenterology. Our GI specialists provide the care you need for effective acid reflux and heartburn management and treatment.
settingsSchedule Treatment for Acid Reflux Today: 706-655-8800
What Is Acid Reflux?
Acid reflux is a condition in which the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) fails to close correctly, allowing stomach acid and other stomach contents to flow back into the esophagus.
Sometimes, acidic contents make it all the way back to the mouth, leading to a sour taste and a burning sensation on the back of the tongue. In other cases, the contents can make their way to the larynx (voice box) and nasal passages, causing a burning sensation in the throat and nose.
People may experience acid reflux after consuming a large meal or a meal that includes acidic foods.
Acid Reflux Treatment From Southeastern Gastroenterology
The GI doctors at Southeastern Gastroenterology offer thorough diagnosis and effective treatment for acid reflux and associated symptoms like heartburn.
For many patients, a change of diet can significantly reduce acid reflux. Others require a regimen of antacids and other medications to help treat their condition. In rare or extreme cases, surgery may be necessary to effectively treat acid reflux and heartburn.
Exam
In the exam portion, you and your GI specialist will talk about your medical history and symptoms, including details like:
- Family history with acid reflux or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
- Personal history of acid reflux or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
- Lifestyle habits, including diet
- Average alcohol consumption
- Average tobacco use
- Current medication regimen
Testing
In addition to evaluating your history and current symptoms, we may also require tests like:
Upper GI series
You will drink a barium solution before we take a series of X-ray images to observe the functions of the esophagus, stomach, and related components.
Upper GI endoscopy
We will insert a flexible tube, or endoscope, into the esophagus to observe and inspect the stomach. This requires a mild sedative.
Esophageal manometry
Similar to a colonoscopy, a sigmoidoscopy requires the insertion of a tube into the rectum to access the lower part of the large intestine and look for evidence of Crohn’s disease.
pH monitor:
You will drink a barium solution before we take a series of X-ray images to observe the functions of the GI tract.
Treatment
Several treatment options can significantly reduce episodes of acid reflux or eliminate reflux and heartburn symptoms altogether.
Some acid reflux management and treatment options include:
- Antacids, including tablets and liquid-form antacids
- Medications, including proton pump inhibitors
In rare cases, surgery may be necessary to treat a patient’s acid reflux and restore lower esophageal sphincter function if antacids and medications prove ineffective. Through a laparoscopic procedure, your gastroenterologist will apply surgical solutions to strengthen the lower esophageal sphincter.
Schedule an Acid Reflux Consultation: Call 706-655-8800 Today.
Symptoms, Causes, and Risk Factors of Acid Reflux
Heartburn and associated symptoms are a result of acid reflux and the more chronic condition of GERD. The following are common symptoms, causes, and risk factors associated with acid reflux and GERD.
Acid Reflux Symptoms
Common symptoms include:
- Heartburn
- Regurgitation
- Supragastric belching
- Chest pain
- Difficulty swallowing
- Bloating
- Nausea
- Vomiting
Acid Reflux Causes
Not a lot is known about what causes Crohn’s. However, it is believed to be related to things like:
- Family history
- Genetics
- Immune system malfunction
- Microbiome balance, or gut health
- Smoking
Acid Reflux Risk Factors
You’re more at risk of experiencing acid reflux if you:
- Have a family history of acid reflux or GERD
- Eat an acidic or high-fat diet
- Consume excessive amounts of caffeine
- Consume excessive amounts of carbonated beverages
- Consume too much alcohol
- Smoke or use other tobacco products
- Are pregnant
- Have a hiatal hernia
Southeastern Gastroenterology Cares for Your Esophagus and Gut Health
Southeastern Gastroenterology is dedicated entirely to your GI health for the benefit of your overall well-being. We strive to make sure you have a positive experience receiving care from our GI doctors by combining fast appointment scheduling with compassionate and honest communication and cutting-edge solutions. In addition to our acid reflux and heartburn care, we offer healthcare solutions for all other GI conditions you may be experiencing or suffering from.
- Barrett’s Esophagus
- Celiac Disease
- Colon Cancer
- Crohn’s Disease
- Irritable Bowel Syndrome
- Ulcerative Colitis
- Other Conditions
Additional Conditions We Treat
- In-Office Services
- In-Hospital Procedures
- Pediatric Services
- Endoscopy Services