Acid Reflux in Thibodaux, LA
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Find a ProviderWhat is acid reflux?
Anytime we drink liquids or foods, they pass through our esophagus and into the stomach. Between the esophagus and stomach is a muscle called the lower esophageal sphincter (LES). This muscle opens and closes, permitting the passage of food into the stomach.
Everyone has stomach acid that assists in digesting the food we consume. Unfortunately, if our LES does not close completely, it may allow some of that acid to move backward, into the esophagus, possibly doing harm and/or leading to long-term acid reflux. That is what we experience as “heartburn” from acid reflux because the acid creates a burning sensation. At Digestive Health Center, our experienced GI specialists commonly help manage acid reflux and can help minimize heartburn and related symptoms. If you need to find a provider who offers acid reflux treatment in Thibodaux, LA, please contact us today.
What causes acid reflux?
Though acid reflux is very common, there is not one root cause of acid reflux. Many components could be a part of a weakening of the lower esophageal sphincter and could then permit stomach acid to flow in reverse into the digestive tract. Acid reflux can be caused by some medications, foods, pre-existing conditions, or some activities after eating. A multitude of factors could have an impact on a patient's reflux in extraordinarily different ways. Some common causes of acid reflux could include:
- Being overweight or obese
- Certain medications (such as ibuprofen, aspirin, those for blood pressure, and muscle relaxers)
- Lying down quickly after eating
- Spicy or fatty foods
- A weak or compromised LES
- Caffeine
- Bubbly drinks
- Pregnancy
- Chocolate, citrus fruits, peppermint, tomatoes, black pepper, garlic, and raw onions
- Low-fiber diet
- Alcohol (particularly red wine)
- Hiatal hernia
- Smoking
What are the common symptoms of acid reflux?
Acid reflux is commonly referred to as heartburn. Common symptoms of heartburn can include:
- Dysphagia
- Unintentional weight loss
- Pain in the chest
- The feeling of a lump in the throat
- Gas
- Regurgitation of food or sour liquids
If you are experiencing these symptoms on a regular basis, then you could suffer from a condition known as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).
How can I relieve acid reflux?
The most optimal and successful way to relieve acid reflux is to reach out to a board-certified gastrointestinal provider in Thibodaux, LA. However, there are some lifestyle changes that can be implemented that may assist in lessening the severity and frequency of symptoms. These can include:
- Limiting your intake of caffeine
- Sleeping at an incline with your feet lower than your head
- Avoiding "trigger" beverages and foods
- Being sure to stand or sit upright after eating
- Not eating for, at minimum, 120 minutes prior to laying down to sleep
- Eating slowly and in moderation
- Disclosing to your gastroenterologist about current medications you are taking
- Quitting smoking
- Losing weight (if overweight)
What is the difference between acid reflux and GERD?
The majority of people have experienced the burning feeling of acid reflux at some point in their life. However, GERD is the more concerning, chronic type of acid reflux. GERD is commonly diagnosed when a person suffers from acid reflux more than twice per week, as well as swelling in the esophagus.
Find specialized care for acid reflux
When frequent acid reflux or other troubling GI effects occur, please reach out to a digestive health specialist. The experienced providers at Digestive Health Center aim to inform and treat individuals with GI conditions, like acid reflux and GERD. If you suspect GERD or need treatment for acid reflux in Thibodaux, LA, contact our team today to arrange for a consultation.
Acid Reflux FAQs
When do I need to see a doctor for acid reflux?
It is encouraged to schedule an appointment with a GI specialist if you endure acid reflux symptoms at least twice weekly, as you could be suffering from GERD (gastrointestinal reflux disease). Gastrointestinal reflux disease is a severe type of acid reflux that can cause damage to your upper GI tract if not treated. The team at Digestive Health Center can look into your symptoms and diagnose GERD. Our team may also help you determine triggers of acid reflux to abate your symptoms.
How long does it take acid reflux to resolve after starting treatments?
Treatment for acid reflux generally encompasses a blend of medicine and changes in diet. Once you discover the right treatment program for your acid reflux, it could take between 1 – 3 weeks until your body begins to get better and experience results.
Should I avoid any particular foods and beverages if I have acid reflux?
Yes, particular foods and drinks can result in or increase symptoms of acid reflux. Some common foods you could think about avoiding if you suffer from acid reflux include:
- Alcohol
- Foods with a lot of grease
- Foods high in fat
- Carbonated and caffeinated drinks (such as seltzer, soda, tea, and coffee)
- Peppermint
- Spicy foods
Are there any ways to relieve acid reflux without depending on medicine?
Even though there are OTC (over-the-counter) and prescription medications that could help symptoms of acid reflux, there are also several other treatments you can use other than medication. Some include:
- Eat more meals in smaller quantity throughout the day rather than three standard larger meals. This often helps you avoid getting too full, which can cause more reflux.
- Try not to go to bed as soon as you finish dinner. Our doctors suggest you finish eating about three hours before laying down for bed so the acid can reside in your stomach rather than regurgitating back up.
- If you are a person who is overweight, it might be wise to begin losing a bit of weight. A physician can work with you to create a weight loss program keeping in mind you needs.
- Avoid smoking or additional tobacco products.
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