The Complete Guide to GERD: From Lifestyle Changes to Surgical Solutions
Key Takeaways GERD vs. Heartburn: Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a chronic, persistent condition, not just occasional heartburn. It is caused by a weak or dysfunctional valve, the lower esophageal sphincter (LES). A “Stepped-Care” Approach: Effective, long-term treatment follows a clear path: it always begins with lifestyle and diet changes, may progress to medication, and […]
How Heartburn Can Lead to Cancer
How can heartburn lead to cancer? Chronic heartburn, known as GERD, can cause persistent acid irritation in the esophagus. Over time, this can lead to changes in the esophageal lining, increasing the risk of how heartburn can lead to cancer. Let’s learn more about this progression, identify warning signs, and offer prevention tips from the […]
Risk Factors for GERD
We’ve all felt uncomfortable bloating or experienced a touch of heartburn resulting from acid reflux. In its occasional form, acid reflux is generally a mild and transient condition, usually resolved with some dietary adjustments or over-the-counter remedies. However, if heartburn is a frequent companion in your life, it might be a sign of a more […]
The Early Signs of Stomach Cancer
We’ve all experienced our fair share of stomach issues. From the occasional tummy ache and pesky bouts of bloating and gas to the discomfort of post-heavy meal indigestion, possibly even digestive conditions like gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD.) Our stomachs have a way of making themselves known, and not always in the most pleasant manner. These […]
Ground Breaking GERD Treatment
Most people experience acid reflux every now and then, but if it occurs more than twice a week and is persistent, a doctor may diagnose gastroesophageal reflux disease. GERD is a long-term condition in which acid from the stomach comes into the esophagus, causing painful heartburn and other symptoms and possible tissue damage. Doctors often […]
Common Types of General Surgery Procedures
Even though general surgery covers common ailments, it is still considered a specific type of surgical discipline. General surgery includes a core knowledge of anatomy, physiology, metabolism, immunology, nutrition, pathology, wound healing, and other areas common to all surgical specialties. In laymen’s terms, general surgeons treat diseases related to the abdomen, breast, head and neck, […]
What Foods to Avoid with GERD Symptoms and Acid Reflux
If you’re one of the millions of people suffering from GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease) or acid reflux, you know how uncomfortable and even painful it can be. But did you know that certain foods can make your symptoms even worse? If you are tired of dealing with the uncomfortable symptoms of GERD and acid reflux […]
GERD Diet: Foods to Avoid and Foods that Help
While everyone needs to eat, choosing the wrong ingredients can trigger painful gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) symptoms like heartburn, chest burning, difficulty swallowing, or a chronic cough and sore throat. While antacids, lozenges, and warm non-mint tea provide quick, short-term relief for acid reflux, lasting comfort requires sustainable dietary changes. Explore our guide for the […]
How Common is GERD?
What is GERD? The week of November 21-27, 2021 is National Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) Awareness Week. It comes just in time for Thanksgiving when many Americans may experience heartburn associated with overeating. However, if heartburn occurs more frequently, or is associated with additional symptoms, it may be gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). An estimated 1 […]
Is a Hiatal Hernia to Blame for Your Acid Reflux?
What is a hiatal hernia? A hiatal hernia happens when the upper part of your stomach bulges through a hole in your diaphragm. The diaphragm is a large muscle that naturally has a hole, or opening, so the esophagus can connect to the stomach. This opening, known as a hiatus, enables food to pass through […]