Best GERD Specialists in NYC
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) occurs when acidic juices from your stomach splash back into your esophagus (“acid reflux”), irritating the esophageal lining. Heartburn is another name for this burning sensation. For an accurate diagnosis and to rule out other causes, persistent GERD symptoms or new onset of acid reflux symptoms should always be evaluated with a thorough consultation and examination by a doctor. Persistent heartburn symptoms can progress to Barrett’s esophagus, which is a precursor to esophageal cancer. This condition is commonly evaluated and treated by our gastroenterologists at our offices.
What Is GERD?
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a digestive dysfunction affecting the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), a bundle of muscles between the stomach and the esophagus. Many people have heartburn or acid indigestion as a result of GERD. The tube that connects your mouth to your stomach is known as the esophagus. It has two sphincters, one at the top of your throat and one near your stomach.
Typically, the lower esophageal sphincter (or LES) maintains a strong grip, allowing the one-way flow of food into your stomach. However, if the LES weakens or doesn’t close properly, the digestive enzymes and acid in your stomach can escape back up into your esophagus.
Many people experience acid reflux symptoms after eating certain foods. In these instances, over-the-counter drugs may be effective in temporarily alleviating GERD symptoms such as a burning throat. Your doctor can help diagnose the condition and place you on the correct medication or prescribe lifestyle modification as needed.
What Are the Symptoms of Acid Reflux?
Heartburn and acid regurgitation are common acid reflux symptoms. Heartburn begins with a burning sensation in the chest. It can occasionally rise into your throat, producing a sour taste and a burning sensation. When you experience this symptom, it’s called acid regurgitation.
Other GERD symptoms include unexplained chest pain, shortness of breath, and radiating arm pain. These can be signs of a heart problem, and you should seek immediate medical attention and call 911. More worrisome symptoms include difficulty swallowing, unexplained weight loss, blood in the stool, and others, which the specialist should immediately evaluate.
A thorough consultation and examination by a physician should be performed to establish an accurate diagnosis and develop an acid reflux treatment plan, as well as to rule out any other conditions. Chronic GERD symptoms can lead to Barrett’s esophagus, which is a precursor to esophageal cancer and can be diagnosed with an upper endoscopy.
What Medications Are Over The Counter? Do You Need Prescriptions?
If diet and lifestyle changes alone fail to improve symptoms, therapy through medicines may be the best next step in the treatment of GERD. Some medications, such as antacids, H-2-receptor blockers, and proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), are available over-the-counter. The dosage levels of OTC H2 blockers and PPIs are lower than those of prescription counterparts. They’re perfectly safe to take for temporary relief of minor discomfort. However, if OTC medications do not resolve your symptoms or if they reoccur frequently, prescription-strength versions may be warranted.
For more information about Manhattan Gastroenterology practice or to schedule an appointment, please contact our Union Square office at (212) 378-9983 or our Manhattan`s Upper East Side office at (212) 427-8761.
Read more: https://www.manhattangastroenterology.com/conditions/gerd-heartburn
Manhattan Gastroenterology
983 Park Ave, Ste 1D,
New York, NY 10028
(212) 427-8761
https://www.manhattangastroenterology.com
E-mail info@manhattangastroenterology.com
Our location on the map: https://goo.gl/maps/6m8pgy24rDzCxTxX6
Nearby Locations:
Upper East Side
Yorkville | Manhattan Valley | Lenox Hill | Sutton Place | Carnegie Hill | East Harlem
10028 | 10025 | 10021| 10022 | 10029
Working Hours:
Monday: 8:00 am - 6:00 pm
Tuesday: 8:00 am - 6:00 pm
Wednesday: 8:00 am - 6:00 pm
Thursday: 8:00 am - 6:00 pm
Friday: 8:00 am - 6:00 pm
Saturday: CLOSED
Sunday: CLOSED
Payment: cash, check, credit cards.