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Acid Reflux And GERD Specialist

Ishwari Prasad, MD, PhD, PA Our Services Acid Reflux and GERD

Ishwari Prasad, MD, PhD, PA

Gastroenterologist located in Tampa, FL & Brandon, FL

If you have heartburn on a regular basis, it could be because of acid reflux and gastrointestinal reflux disease (GERD). Ishwari Prasad, MD, PhD, PA, can diagnose and treat these conditions to reduce symptoms and your risk of complications. To learn more about acid reflux and GERD treatment, schedule an appointment with Ishwari Prasad, MD, PhD, PA in Tampa or Brandon, Florida, by phone or online today.

Acid Reflux and GERD Q&A

What is acid reflux and GERD?

Acid reflux occurs when acid from your stomach backs up into your esophagus, which is the tube that carries food from your mouth to your stomach. 

Gastrointestinal reflux disease (GERD) is a condition characterized by having acid reflux at least once or twice a week. Fortunately, you don’t have to live with unpleasant symptoms associated with acid reflux and GERD because these conditions can be treated. 

What are the symptoms of acid reflux and GERD?

Common symptoms of acid reflux and GERD include:

  • Difficulty swallowing
  • Heartburn after meals or at night
  • Chest pain
  • Food regurgitation 
  • Lump-like feeling in your throat
  • Laryngitis
  • Ongoing cough
  • Sleep disruptions
  • New or worsening asthma

Complications that could develop because of untreated acid reflux and GERD include narrowing of your esophagus, ulcers, and precancerous changes to your esophagus (Barrett’s esophagus).

What are the risk factors for acid reflux and GERD?

Acid reflux and GERD are common and can happen to anyone, but factors that increase your risk of developing these conditions include:

  • Weak esophageal sphincter
  • Pregnancy
  • Obesity
  • Hiatal hernia
  • Delayed stomach emptying
  • Connective tissue disorders
  • Eating large meals late at night
  • Smoking
  • Some medications
  • Certain foods and drinks

GERD symptoms could become worse after consuming alcohol, coffee, fatty foods, fried foods, or very large meals. Adopting healthy habits and maintaining an ideal body weight may help reduce your chance of acid reflux and GERD.

How does my provider diagnose acid reflux and GERD?

Dr. Prasad lets you know if you have acid reflux and GERD after discussing your symptoms and medical history with you. He also checks your vital signs, completes a physical exam, and may order diagnostic tests. Examples include upper endoscopy, acid probe testing, esophageal muscle contraction tests, swallowing tests, and X-rays.

How are acid reflux and GERD treated?

To reduce acid reflux and other GERD symptoms, Dr. Prasad may recommend:

Lifestyle changes

Getting regular exercise, maintaining a healthy body weight, avoiding tight-fitted clothing, not smoking, eating smaller meals, and eating slowly are some lifestyle changes that may help you feel better.

In addition, you may benefit from elevating the head of your bed before sleeping and avoiding large meals right before bed.

If Dr. Prasad recommends it, he may also advise dietary supplements and ask you to reduce foods and drinks that trigger acid reflux. Examples include tomato sauce, fried foods, onions, mint, garlic, fatty foods, fried foods, alcohol, chocolate, and caffeine. 

Medications

Over-the-counter and prescription medications can reduce GERD symptoms and your risk of complications. 

Medical procedures

Dr. Prasad offers procedures that reduce acid reflux. Examples include surgery to tighten your lower esophageal sphincter or repair a hiatal hernia.

To learn more about acid reflux and GERD treatment, schedule an appointment with Ishwari Prasad, MD, PhD, PA in Tampa or Brandon, Florida, by phone or online today.