What your gastroenterologist in Wesley Chapel, FL wants you to knowgerd

Occasional acid reflux, or heartburn, is normal but if you suffer frequent heartburn, it could be a symptom of a more serious condition called gastroesophageal reflux disease or GERD. If you think you might have GERD, you are not alone. In fact, over 60 million Americans have symptoms of GERD, according to the American College of Gastroenterology. Dr. Saeed Ahmed at Digestive Disease Associates of Central Florida in Wesley Chapel, FL wants to share the symptoms and effects of GERD.

Chronic acid reflux is the result of excess acid from your stomach traveling back up your esophagus. Ordinarily, a strong sphincter muscle keeps this from happening, but if the muscle isn’t working correctly, it may not close completely. The small opening allows stomach acid to back up into your esophagus. Over time, chronic acid reflux develops into GERD.

You may have GERD if you experience:

  • Chronic bad breath
  • Chronic sour taste in your mouth
  • Chronic pain in your throat
  • Chronic dry coughing or wheezing
  • Eroding tooth enamel causing tooth sensitivity
  • Nausea, vomiting or chest pain

Untreated gastro-esophageal reflux disease can damage your esophagus in many ways. Untreated GERD can lead to:

  • Inflammation of your esophagus, a condition known as esophagitis; this condition causes your esophagus to swell, making it difficult to swallow.
  • Ulcers in your esophagus, which can lead to difficulty swallowing, nausea and chest pain
  • Narrowing and scarring of your esophagus, which can cause your esophagus to narrow, making it difficult to swallow
  • Barrett’s esophagus
  • An increased risk of esophageal cancer

There are some helpful tips you can try which can reduce the symptoms of GERD. Consider:

  • Eating smaller meals
  • Avoiding tobacco products
  • Staying up for at least 2 to 3 hours after meals; don’t lie down after eating.
  • Keeping spicy foods out of your diet
  • Try taking over-the-counter antacids

If you suffer from chronic acid reflux, it’s time to see an expert. It’s time to call Dr. Saeed Ahmed at Digestive Disease Associates of Central Florida in Wesley Chapel, FL. Early diagnosis means early treatment which can lead to a better outcome for you, so ​call us today at (813)994-4800!

Wesley Chapel, FL Gastroenterologist Digestive Disease Associates of Central Florida 2050 Ashley Oaks Circle Wesley Chapel, FL 33544 (813) 994-4800
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