Acid Reflux in Baton Rouge, LA
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Find a ProviderWhat is acid reflux?
When an individual swallows liquids or foods, they pass from the esophagus and into the stomach. Between the esophagus and stomach, there is a muscle known as the lower esophageal sphincter (LES). This muscle closes and opens, permitting the passage of food into the stomach.
Each of us has acid in our stomachs to help digest our food. Unfortunately, if our lower esophageal sphincter fails to close all the way, it may allow a portion of that acid to move in reverse and up back into the esophagus, sometimes doing harm and/or leading to long-term acid reflux. This acid reflux is the sensation we experience as “heartburn.” At Gastroenterology Associates, our experienced GI specialists regularly treat acid reflux and can help reduce heartburn and other symptoms. If you are seeking acid reflux treatment in Baton Rouge, LA, contact one of our locations near you today.
What are the causes acid reflux or heartburn?
Although acid reflux is very common, there is no single primary cause of acid reflux. There are a plethora of factors that might contribute to a loss of strength in the lower esophageal sphincter, which could then permit acid from our stomach to move back up the digestive tract. Acid reflux might be triggered by certain medications, foods, pre-existing conditions, or even activities following the consumption of food. Varying circumstances could affect a person's acid reflux in extremely differing ways. Some typical causes of acid reflux could include:
- Low-fiber diet
- Being a smoker
- Foods such as chocolate, citrus fruits, peppermint, tomatoes, black pepper, garlic, and raw onions
- Hiatal hernia
- Being obese or overweight
- Sparkling drinks
- Being or becoming pregnant
- Consumption of alcohol (particularly red wine)
- Fatty or spicy foods
- Having a weak or compromised LES
- Certain medications (such as ibuprofen, aspirin, those for blood pressure, and muscle relaxers)
- Lying down quickly after eating
- Consuming caffeine
What are common symptoms of acid reflux?
Oftentimes, acid reflux is referred to as heartburn. Typical symptoms of acid reflux can include:
- Pain in the chest
- Unexplained weight loss
- Gas
- Regurgitation of food or sour liquids
- Dysphagia
- The sensation of a lump in the throat
In the case that you are experiencing these symptoms on a regular basis, then you could suffer from a condition called gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). If that is the case, we urge you to contact a Gastroenterology Associates doctor as soon as possible.
How do I relieve acid reflux?
The best and most effective method for relieving acid reflux is to consult with one of our board-certified gastrointestinal doctors in Baton Rouge, LA. However, there are also some changes in lifestyle that you can implement that could help lessen the severity and frequency of symptoms. These can include (but are not limited to):
- Stopping smoking
- Sleeping at an incline with your head raised above your feet
- Avoiding "trigger" foods and beverages
- Being sure to stand or sit upright after eating
- Limiting your intake of caffeine
- Eating in moderation and at a slow speed
- Losing weight (if overweight)
- Telling your gastroenterologist about the medication you are currently taking
- Refraining from eating for, at minimum, 120 minutes prior to going to bed
What is the difference between acid reflux and GERD?
The majority of adults know the burning feeling of acid reflux due to experiencing it at some point over time. However, gastroesophageal reflux disease is the more dangerous and chronic acid reflux. Gastroesophageal reflux disease is most often diagnosed when a person suffers from acid reflux more frequently than twice per week and has swelling in the esophagus. Should you have the symptoms of acid reflux three times a week or more, we urge you to talk with a GI physician as soon as possible.
Find treatment for acid reflux
If you experience consistent acid reflux or other GI concerns, our GI physicians may be able to help. The distinguished doctors at Gastroenterology Associates work to educate and help patients with gastrointestinal conditions, such as acid reflux and GERD. If you or a loved one believe you may need help for acid reflux in Baton Rouge, LA, reach out to one of our locations today to request a consultation.
Acid Reflux FAQs
When should I see a doctor for acid reflux?
If you suffer symptoms of acid reflux twice or more a week, it is time to request an appointment with a GI doctor, as you could be struggling with gastrointestinal reflux disease. GERD is a chronic form of acid reflux that can damage the upper GI tract if untreated. The gastroenterologists at Gastroenterology Associates can examine your current symptoms and decide a diagnosis for the condition. Our providers can also help you identify any triggers to help you reduce its symptoms.
How long will acid reflux take to settle after treatment?
Treatment for acid reflux typically encompasses a combination of medication and changes in diet. After you find the proper treatment for your condition, it can take anywhere from 1 to 3 weeks for your body to begin to heal and experience results.
What foods and beverages should I avoid with acid reflux?
Yes, particular foods and beverages can instigate or worsen your symptoms. Some items you may want to avoid if you suffer from acid reflux are:
- Spicy foods
- Peppermint
- Carbonated and caffeinated drinks (such as soda, seltzer, coffee, and tea)
- Foods high in fat
- Greasy foods
- Alcohol
How can I relieve acid reflux without depending on medicine?
While it’s true there are OTC (over-the-counter) and prescription medications that can reduce acid reflux, there also are other treatments you can look into other than medication. A few are:
- Eat more meals but smaller portions throughout the day instead of the standard three larger meals. This can help keep you from getting too full, which may cause further acid reflux symptoms.
- Don’t go to bed just after supper. We suggest you eat about three hours before going to bed so the acid can reside inside your stomach rather than regurgitate back up.
- If you are overweight or obese, it might be wise to consider losing some weight. Your provider can create a plan personalized to meet your needs.
- Cut back on cigarettes or other tobacco products.
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