If you have frequent heartburn, a sour taste in your mouth, chronic coughing, difficulty swallowing, or trouble sleeping because of upper belly or chest pain, you may have gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).
We offer a full range of treatments for GERD, from lifestyle changes and medications to advanced minimally invasive surgery. Our team works closely with specialists across multiple fields to find the right treatment for you.
GERD happens when material from your stomach moves back up (refluxes) into your esophagus. This material can be acidic fluid, non-acidic fluid, food material, or a combination of all.
Common symptoms of GERD include:
Without treatment, GERD can affect your quality of life and may lead to complications such as inflammation of the esophagus, narrowing of the esophagus, or changes to the cells that line the esophagus, which can develop into cancer.
You may benefit from a GERD evaluation if you:
A consultation does not mean that you need surgery. Our goal is to help you understand your condition and learn about all available treatment options.
GERD can affect more than just your digestive system. That's why we take a team-based approach to care.
Depending on your needs, your care team may work with specialists in gastroenterology, ear, nose, and throat (otolaryngology), pulmonology, radiology, nutrition, and weight management.
Your evaluation may include:
After testing is complete, we review the results with you and create a personalized treatment plan based on your symptoms, lifestyle, and goals.
Treatment for GERD often starts with non-surgical options.
Simple changes can help reduce reflux symptoms, including:
Many people find relief with medications that reduce stomach acid. These medications can help control symptoms and allow irritated tissue to heal.
For some people, surgery may provide longer-lasting relief, especially when symptoms continue despite medication or when a hiatal hernia is present.
We offer minimally invasive robotic procedures, including:
Your surgeon will discuss which option may be best for you.
If surgery is recommended, you’ll first complete testing to better understand the cause of your reflux.
Most patients go home the same day as surgery, while others may stay in the hospital overnight.
Most patients can:
You may notice temporary swallowing difficulty during the first several weeks after surgery as swelling goes down. Your care team will provide detailed instructions about diet, activity, and recovery.
Many patients experience significant improvement in their symptoms after treatment. Some are able to reduce or stop taking reflux medications altogether.
Your care team will continue to follow up with you after treatment to monitor recovery and help ensure long-term success.
A consultation is an opportunity to learn more about your symptoms, understand what may be causing them, and explore your treatment options.
While a physician referral is not required to schedule a consultation, patients are commonly referred by primary care providers, gastroenterologists, ear, nose, and throat (otolaryngology) specialists, pulmonologists, dentists, or other healthcare providers. We also welcome patients who are seeking a second opinion about their GERD diagnosis or treatment plan.
Our team will work closely with you and your referring provider (if applicable) to ensure you receive the care that best meets your needs.
