GERD/ Acid reflux is a very common condition affecting people of all age groups. Acid Reflux or GERD is characterized by a burning pain a.k.a heartburn as it is generally called, felt internally around the lower chest area.
The upper part of the stomach is controlled by a ring of muscle called the lower esophageal sphincter (LES). Normally, the LES closes as soon as food passes through it. If the LES doesn’t close all the way or if it opens too often, the acid produced by your stomach can travel upward into your food pipe. This can induce symptoms such as a burning chest pain called heartburn. If acid reflux symptoms happen more than twice a week, you have acid reflux disease, which is also known as Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD).
One of the common causes of acid reflux disease is a problem called a Hiatal Hernia. This occurs when the upper part of the stomach and LES move above the diaphragm, a muscle that separates your stomach from your chest. Normally, the diaphragm helps keep the acid in your tummy but if you have a hiatal hernia, acid can travel upwards into your esophagus and cause symptoms of Acid Reflux Disease / GERD.
These are other common risk factors for acid reflux disease:
Majority of the patients with acid reflux problem respond well to certain lifestyle changes and medications.These include:
If these steps don't help or if you suffer frequent or severe symptoms, your physician may set up exams to substantiate a diagnosis and check for other troubles. You may require one or more tests such as these:
If medications do not completely resolve your symptoms of acid reflux disease and the symptoms are severe interfering with your normal life your doctor could recommend surgery.
A surgical procedure called fundoplication can help cure acid reflux. It produces an artificial valve using the stomach as a wrap .This is performed laparoscopically (keyhole).The patient experiences only minimal discomfort and is back to his normal life and activities within 5 days of the surgery.
Dr. Parthasarathy is a highly regarded gastrosurgeon in Hyderabad who specializes in GERD and acid reflux management. He offers a range of treatments, from lifestyle modifications to advanced procedures like laparoscopic fundoplication for severe cases.
Treatment usually begins with lifestyle changes, such as avoiding trigger foods, eating smaller meals and elevating the head of the bed. Medications are often prescribed to reduce stomach acid. If symptoms persist, tests like endoscopy or esophageal manometry may be recommended for further evaluation.
Acid reflux can be caused by factors like a hiatal hernia, obesity, large meals or lying down soon after eating. Experienced gastrosurgeons in Hyderabad diagnose and manage these conditions using advanced tests like endoscopy and provide targeted treatment plans.
You should consult a doctor if you experience heartburn more than twice a week or if you have symptoms like regurgitation, bloating or difficulty swallowing. Early evaluation helps identify GERD or related conditions and prevents complications.
Surgeons skilled in procedures like laparoscopic fundoplication can create a valve mechanism that prevents acid from flowing back into the esophagus. This offers long-term relief for severe GERD cases that don’t respond to medications, with the benefit of a minimally invasive approach and faster recovery.
Your health deserves the best. Choose Dr Parthasarathy for the best GI care.