Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a common condition that affects about 20% of adults in the United States. At Innovative GI Health and Wellness in the Beverly Grove neighborhood of Los Angeles, California, board-certified gastroenterologist Cameron Sikavi, MD, specializes in diagnosing and treating GERD. Dr. Sikavi takes a holistic approach, creating plans that benefit your whole health. For help managing your acid reflux, call the office or schedule an appointment online today.
GERD is a chronic gastrointestinal condition in which the acidic contents of the stomach reflux up into the esophagus. The reflux occurs because your lower esophageal sphincter (LES) isn’t closing completely, allowing the contents to flow up.
The LES may not fully close if the muscle is weak or you have a hiatal hernia. Certain foods may also affect the function of the LES, causing reflux symptoms.
Heartburn and indigestion are the most common symptoms of GERD. Other symptoms you might have with GERD include:
Though it’s normal to have heartburn occasionally, if your heartburn or indigestion occurs more than twice a week, you may have GERD.
Without proper treatment, GERD may damage your esophagus, putting you at risk of developing conditions like esophagitis, esophageal strictures, or Barrett’s esophagus.
Dr. Sikavi does a thorough evaluation when you come in for a GERD consultation. He wants to fully understand your symptoms and how they affect your life to create the most effective treatment plan.
Dr. Sikavi asks detailed questions about your symptoms and when they occur. He reviews your usual diet, medical history, and the types of medications you take. He performs a physical exam and may perform an upper endoscopy to evaluate your esophagus and look for signs of damage.
Treatment for your GERD depends on the severity of your symptoms and the degree of damage you have. Initially, Dr. Sikavi recommends lifestyle changes such as eating small meals, eliminating foods that trigger your symptoms, and not eating too close to bedtime.
He may also recommend antacid medication or proton pump inhibitors (PPI), which are over-the-counter (OTC) and prescription drugs that help with symptom management.
Dr. Sikavi schedules regular follow-up appointments to monitor your symptoms and changes to your esophagus.
In some cases, Dr. Sikavi may recommend surgery to treat your GERD if medical interventions fail. Surgery may include fundoplication, which wraps the upper part of the stomach around the LES to help tighten the muscle.
For help with your GERD, call Innovative GI Health and Wellness or schedule an appointment online today.