A clear guide for Valley Gastroenterology patients.
What is GERD?
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) happens when stomach contents flow backward into the esophagus, causing symptoms like heartburn and regurgitation. Frequent reflux can irritate the esophagus and affect sleep, diet, and quality of life.
Common symptoms
- Burning in the chest (heartburn), sour taste or food coming back up
- Chest discomfort, upper abdominal pain, bloating
- Chronic cough, hoarseness, throat clearing, sore throat
- Trouble swallowing or the sensation of food “sticking”
Red‑flag symptoms — call us promptly
- Difficulty swallowing that’s worsening (progressive dysphagia)
- Unintentional weight loss, vomiting, black/tarry stools, or bleeding
- Chest pain not clearly heartburn (seek urgent care/ER to rule out cardiac causes)
Self‑care & lifestyle steps
- Meal habits: Smaller meals; avoid late‑night eating (last meal 3–4 hours before bed)
- Elevate the head of the bed 6–8 inches (blocks/wedge pillow)
- Weight management: Even modest loss can reduce symptoms
- Trigger awareness: Common triggers include fatty/fried foods, peppermint, chocolate, onions/garlic, tomato/citrus, coffee, alcohol, and carbonated drinks (varies by person)
- Avoid tobacco/nicotine
- Wear looser clothing; avoid heavy lifting right after meals
Medications (talk with us about what’s right for you)
- Antacids (calcium carbonate, etc.) — rapid relief of occasional symptoms
- H2 blockers (famotidine) — reduce acid; helpful for mild, intermittent symptoms
- Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) (omeprazole, esomeprazole, etc.) — strongest acid suppression; usually taken 30–60 minutes before breakfast (and before dinner for twice‑daily dosing)
Use the lowest effective dose. We’ll personalize duration and safety monitoring based on your risks and response.
When testing is considered
- Ongoing symptoms
- Red‑flag features (see above)
- Prior complications (strictures, Barrett’s esophagus) or long‑standing reflux
Potential tests
- Upper endoscopy (EGD): Looks for inflammation, strictures, ulcers, or Barrett’s esophagus; biopsies if needed
- pH monitoring (with or without impedance): Measures acid/non‑acid reflux events, often off medications to confirm GERD
- Esophageal manometry: Evaluates swallowing muscle function and LES pressure (helpful before anti‑reflux procedures)
Complications we watch for
- Esophagitis (inflammation), ulcers, bleeding
- Strictures (narrowing causing dysphagia)
- Barrett’s esophagus (cell changes from chronic reflux) — requires surveillance; a small percentage may progress to cancer
Procedures & advanced options (for select patients)
- Endoscopic dilation for strictures causing dysphagia
- Anti‑reflux procedures (surgical or endoscopic) for documented reflux not controlled with meds/lifestyle after full evaluation; we’ll discuss candidacy and referral options
FAQs
Can I take PPIs long term? Many patients use PPIs safely under medical guidance. We review benefits vs. risks, use the lowest effective dose, and reassess periodically.
Do I need to stop coffee or spicy foods completely? Not necessarily. Track your personal triggers and adjust; total avoidance isn’t required for everyone.
Is heartburn the same as a heart attack? No—but symptoms can overlap. If pain is severe, new, or you’re unsure, seek urgent care/ER.
Can reflux cause cough or hoarseness? Yes. Laryngeal or respiratory symptoms can be related to reflux; evaluation may include pH/impedance testing.
Alaska‑specific note
We accommodate winter travel and weather‑related rescheduling without penalty. Telehealth is available for many visits.
Next steps
If you have frequent symptoms, night‑time reflux, or red‑flags—or you’ve used over‑the‑counter medications >2 weeks without relief—schedule a visit. We’ll tailor a plan (lifestyle, meds, and testing if needed).
Valley Gastroenterology
3190 E Meridian Park Loop, Suite 206
Wasilla, Alaska 99654
Phone: (907) 373-2544
Fax: (844) 689-4240
Web: ValleyGastroAK.com
Acid Reflux / GERD — Patient Information