About 106 million people in the United States suffer from heartburn at least once a month.  18 million of these people are chronic sufferers and take prescribed medication.  1.66 million people have Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) also known as acid reflux and 54% of these patients are between the ages of 18 to 59.

GERD is the backflow of acid from the stomach into the swallowing tube or esophagus. This acid can irritate and sometimes damage the lining on the inside of the esophagus. Almost everyone experiences this at some time. The usual symptom is heartburn, an uncomfortable burning sensation behind the breastbone, most commonly occurring after a meal. In some individuals this reflux is frequent or severe enough to cause more significant problems, which is the disease.

GERD Symptoms:

• Heartburn
• Regurgitation of acid into the mouth
• Difficult and/or painful swallowing
• Chest pain

The majority of people suffering from GERD can be treated with lifestyle changes and medical treatments.

Lifestyle changes include diet, elevation of head during sleep, no smoking, avoid medications which lower LES pressure, and utilize antacids.

Medical treatment options include H2 blockers to suppress acid production, prokinetic agents to enhance motility through the esophagus and stomach, and proton pump inhibitors to reduce gastric acid secretion.

If the lifestyle changes and medical treatment options do not relieve the symptoms of GERD, surgery is another option.  Patients refractory to medical therapy are defined as those with symptoms present after 12 weeks of maximal medical therapy, symptoms that recur after cessation of medications, or those incapable of medical therapy compliance.  Another indication for surgery includes patients with complications as noted.  Documentation of a mechanically defective LES resulting in increased exposure to gastric juice is imperative before recommending surgery.

 Contact our Conway office for more information or to schedule a consultation.