What your gastroenterologist in Wesley Chapel, FL wants you to know
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:
Untreated gastro-esophageal reflux disease can damage your esophagus in many ways. Untreated GERD can lead to:
There are some helpful tips you can try which can reduce the symptoms of GERD. Consider:
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!