Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), commonly known as acid reflux, is a disease that develops when the valve between the esophagus and the stomach called the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), breaks down due to weakness or damage, resulting in stomach acid to move backward into the esophagus from the stomach. This process is known as acid reflux, as the stomach acid is refluxing backward into the esophagus from the stomach.
Symptoms of Acid Reflux
One of the most common symptoms of acid reflux is heartburn. Heartburn causes a burning sensation in the chest, which is also sometimes felt behind the neck and throat. Other symptoms of acid reflux include:
- Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia)
- Hoarseness
- Excess phlegm
- Chronic cough and wheezing
- Constant throat clearing
- Bitter taste in the mouth
- Bitter stomach fluid coming into the mouth, which commonly occurs during sleep
- Intensifying of symptoms, especially after eating, or when bending down or lying down
If you experience acid reflux more than twice a week, then you may have acid reflux disease. It is best to consult with a gastroenterologist in Thousand Oaks so we can provide you with the diagnosis and treatment that you need. If you are experiencing any of the above symptoms, contact us today to schedule an appointment with our team at The Office of Dr. Sharam Daneshgar, MD.
What Causes Acid Reflux?
There are many different factors that can cause acid reflux or aggravate it, which include:
- Use of tobacco
- Eating high-fat or fried foods
- Eating large meals
- Eating late at night and lying down right after
- Drinking alcohol
- Drinking caffeinated drinks
How is Acid Reflux Treated?
Treating acid reflux comes with certain lifestyle changes, as well as medications. Sometimes minimally-invasive surgery is recommended to correct the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) or a large hiatal hernia.
It is important to consider that the same lifestyle changes and medications do not work for everyone, and persistence is essential in finding out what works best for you. Some of the lifestyle changes include, eating smaller, frequent meals; avoiding lying down after eating; elevating the head of your bed; losing weight; and exercising. When these lifestyle changes are combined with medication, it can possibly be enough to alleviate the symptoms of acid reflux. However, it is always best to consult with an acid reflux specialist in Thousand Oaks.
Schedule an Appointment With an Acid Reflux Specialist in Thousand Oaks Today
At The Office of Dr. Sharam Daneshgar, MD, our gastroenterologist in Thousand Oaks will be able to provide you with the diagnosis and effective treatment that you need. Feel free to contact our friendly and knowledgeable team today. We are ready to help!