Acid Reflux in Lubbock, TX
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Find a ProviderWhat exactly is acid reflux?
Whenever we eat or drink, the item we're consuming travels through the esophagus and down into the stomach. Between the esophagus and stomach, there is a muscle known as the lower esophageal sphincter (LES). This muscle opens and closes, allowing food to pass through into the stomach.
Each of us has acid in our stomachs to help digest the food we consume. Unfortunately, if your lower esophageal sphincter does not close all the way, it can allow some of the acid to flow backward and up into the esophagus, sometimes doing damage and/or causing chronic acid reflux. The acid causes a burning sensation that irritates the esophagus, a symptom commonly called "heartburn." At Lubbock Digestive Disease Associates , our experienced GI specialists regularly treat acid reflux and can help minimize heartburn and related symptoms. If you need acid reflux treatment in Lubbock, TX, reach out to our practice today.
What causes acid reflux or heartburn?
An extremely common condition, acid reflux doesn't stem from any one particular cause. There are numerous factors that might play a part in weakening the LES so stomach acid can flow back into the esophagus. Acid reflux can be caused by a number of medications, foods, pre-existing conditions, or even activities following the consumption of food. Varying factors may affect an individual's reflux in a variety of ways. A few typical factors contributing to acid reflux could include:
- Peppermint, chocolate, raw onions, garlic, black pepper, tomatoes, citrus fruits
- Being overweight or obese
- Pregnancy
- Lying down quickly after eating
- Fatty or spicy foods
- Smoking
- Bubbly beverages
- A diet low in fiber
- Alcohol (particularly red wine)
- Caffeine
- Specific medications (such as ibuprofen, aspirin, muscle relaxers, and those for blood pressure)
- Hiatal hernia
- Having a weak or sub-optimal LES
What are common acid reflux symptoms?
Heartburn is commonly referred to as heartburn, its main symptom. Other symptoms that are typical of acid reflux include:
- Regurgitation of sour liquids or food
- Unintentional weight loss
- Dysphagia
- Chest pain
- Bloating
- The sensation of a lump in the throat
In the case that you are dealing with any of these symptoms persistently, then it is possible that you could suffer from a condition known as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). If this is the case, please reach out to a Lubbock Digestive Disease Associates specialist today.
How can a person relieve acid reflux?
The most sound strategy to relieve your symptoms is to reach out to a board-certified gastroenterologist who treats acid reflux in Lubbock, TX. However, there are also some changes in lifestyle that can be implemented that may help lessen the severity and frequency of symptoms. These can include (but are not limited) to:
- Sleeping at an incline with your feet lower than your head
- Refraining from eating for a minimum of two hours prior to bedtime
- Telling your GI doctor about medications you are currently taking
- Quitting smoking
- Being sure to stand or sit upright after eating
- If overweight, losing extra weight
- Limiting your caffeine intake
- Avoidance of "trigger" foods and beverages
- Eating slowly and in moderation
What is the difference between GERD and acid reflux?
Most individuals will come to experience the burning symptoms of acid reflux at some time or another. However, gastroesophageal reflux disease is the more serious and chronic form of acid reflux. GERD is described as when a person suffers from acid reflux more frequently than two times per week and has swelling in their esophagus. If you struggle with indications of acid reflux more than twice a week, please visit a GI specialist today.
Find treatment for acid reflux
If you regularly suffer from the uncomfortable symptoms of acid reflux or find that over-the-counter medications don't offer relief, we urge you to seek help from a GI physician. The skilled specialists at Lubbock Digestive Disease Associates aim to educate and help individuals with GI concerns, such as acid reflux and GERD. If you or a loved one believe you may suffer from GERD or need help for acid reflux in Lubbock, TX, connect with our office today to schedule a consultation.
Acid Reflux FAQs
When do I need to see a provider for acid reflux?
It is vital to schedule an appointment with a GI provider if you experience acid reflux symptoms at least twice a week, as this could indicate you have developed GERD (gastrointestinal reflux disease). GERD is an extreme kind of acid reflux that could end up damaging your upper gastrointestinal tract if left untreated. The team at Lubbock Digestive Disease Associates can go over your symptoms and make a diagnosis. Our GI providers will help you identify any triggers to help you reduce symptoms.
How long should it take acid reflux to clear up after starting treatments?
Acid reflux treatment often encompasses a combination of medication and changes in diet. Once you get the correct treatment program, it may take up to three weeks until your body begins to recover and notice results.
Are there any foods and beverages I should avoid with acid reflux
Yes, some foods and drinks can trigger or amplify symptoms. A few flavors you may want to avoid if you suffer from acid reflux include:
- Alcohol
- Fatty foods
- Carbonated and caffeinated drinks (such as seltzer, soda, tea, and tea)
- Spicy foods
- Foods with a lot of grease
- Peppermint
What are some ways to relieve acid reflux without depending on medication?
While it’s true there are over-the-counter (OTC) and prescription medications that may help your symptoms, there also are several options you can look into that don’t include medication. Some of these options include:
- Stop smoking cigarettes or using any additional tobacco products
- Do not go to sleep directly after you’ve eaten. Our gastroenterologists suggest that you eat at least three hours prior to going to bed so the acid will reside in the stomach rather than regurgitate into the esophagus
- Eat more meals, but smaller amounts each day rather than three standard larger meals. This can help you from becoming too full, which could lead to even more reflux
- If you are overweight, it’s suggested that you give thought to losing a bit of weight. Your GI provider should be able to work with you to develop a weight loss plan, keeping in mind your desires and goals
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