Dr. Mordo Suchov and Dr. Alan Naim direct the Gastroenterology Associates of Southern California practice in Encino, CA. These board-certified doctors are highly experienced and skilled in acid reflux, the digestive system, and its accompanying diseases.
Let’s consider the many questions about the relationship between acid reflux and GERD, as both conditions are common causes of indigestion.
What Is Acid Reflux?
You may have reflux when you notice a burning sensation in your esophagus that ends up in your throat after eating or drinking. You can expect a mild to severe burning sensation.
Causes of Acid Reflux
A tiny valve at the lower end of the esophagus opens and closes access to the stomach acid. If this valve or sphincter is weak or stops working, there is nothing to keep stomach acid in the stomach; thus, acid enters the esophagus and travels to the throat, causing burning or heartburn.
What Is GERD?
A gastroenterologist in Encino, CA, explains that GERD and acid reflux are similar; GERD is more severe and chronic. If you experience reflux more than twice a week, it’s considered chronic.
Causes of GERD
The cause is the same as in reflux. The sphincter muscle is weakened or has ceased to function.
GERD Complications
Untreated reflux, or GERD, can cause complications such as esophagitis, Barrett’s esophagus (cancer), vocal cord growths, esophageal stricture, laryngopharyngeal reflux, or asthma.
Shared Symptoms of Reflux and GERD
The symptoms of either of these conditions are the same.
- Regurgitation of food/fluid back into the esophagus
- Sour acid taste in your mouth
- A burning feeling, heartburn, acid indigestion
- Chest pain unrelated to the heart
- Bad Breath
- Nausea
- Loss of appetite
- Prolonged feeling of fullness in the stomach
- Sore throat
- Difficulty swallowing, lump in the throat
- Triggers, wheezing, shortness of breath, chronic coughing
Consider Lifestyle Changes
Make some lifestyle changes, such as sleeping with the head of your bed up at least 45 degrees. Avoid lying down after eating. Avoid fatty, deep-fried foods. Stoop and don’t bend over. Avoid tobacco and alcohol. Avoid spicy and high-acid foods (chocolate, coffee, mint, garlic, alcohol, and onions). Avoid eating late at night before going to bed.
Our doctor may prescribe anti-acid medication to help reduce acid or alginates, which create a barrier from the acid.
What Worsens These Conditions?
- Pregnancy
- Hiatal Hernia
- Obesity
- Smoking
Get Your Acid Reflux or GERD Treated Today
Call Dr. Suchov or Dr. Naim at the Gastroenterology Associates of Southern California in Encino, CA, to schedule your GERD or acid reflux treatment appointment.
Don’t let either of these conditions go untreated, as complications can worsen them. Both conditions are very treatable.
Prevent tissue damage to the esophagus and stomach—make an appointment by calling (818) 905-1567 now.