GERD Treatment in Manikonda | Dr. Harsha Vardhan Reddy

Understanding GERD

Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) is a chronic condition where stomach acid frequently flows back into the esophagus, leading to irritation and inflammation. This acid reflux can cause discomfort and may damage the lining of the esophagus over time.

Symptoms of GERD

The symptoms of GERD can vary in severity and may include:

Heartburn: A burning sensation in the chest, often after eating, which might be worse at night or when lying down.
Regurgitation: Sour or bitter-tasting acid backing up into the throat or mouth.
Difficulty Swallowing: A sensation of food being stuck in the throat or chest.
Chest Pain: Especially after eating or at night.
Chronic Cough: Persistent cough that doesn’t seem related to a respiratory infection.
Hoarseness or Sore Throat: Particularly in the morning.
Nausea: Sometimes leading to vomiting.

Causes and Risk Factors

GERD occurs when the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), a ring of muscle at the entrance to the stomach, fails to close properly. Several factors can contribute to this dysfunction:

Dietary Habits: Consuming large meals, lying down after eating, and eating certain foods like fatty or fried items, chocolate, caffeine, alcohol, and spicy foods.
Obesity: Excess weight can put pressure on the abdomen, pushing stomach contents into the esophagus.
Smoking: Weakens the LES and increases acid production.
Pregnancy: Hormonal changes and pressure from the growing fetus can cause reflux.
Hiatal Hernia: A condition where part of the stomach pushes up through the diaphragm, allowing acid to escape into the esophagus.
Certain Medications: Including NSAIDs, aspirin, and some blood pressure medications.

Diagnosis and Evaluation

At Adithya Gastro and Liver Care Clinic in Manikonda, Hyderabad, Dr. G Harsha Vardhan Reddy uses a comprehensive approach to diagnose GERD:

Medical History and Physical Exam: Detailed assessment of symptoms, dietary habits, and medical history.
Endoscopy: A thin, flexible tube with a camera is used to examine the esophagus and stomach for signs of inflammation or damage.
pH Monitoring: Measuring the amount of acid in the esophagus over a 24-hour period.
Manometry: Testing the function of the esophagus and LES.
Barium Swallow: X-rays taken after drinking a barium solution to highlight any abnormalities in the esophagus.

Treatment Options

Treatment for GERD focuses on lifestyle changes, medications, and in severe cases, surgical interventions to manage symptoms and prevent complications:

Lifestyle Modifications:

Dietary Changes: Avoiding trigger foods, eating smaller meals, and not lying down immediately after eating.
Weight Management: Achieving and maintaining a healthy weight.
Elevating the Head: Raising the head of the bed to prevent nighttime reflux.
Avoiding Smoking and Alcohol: Reducing or eliminating these habits to improve LES function.

Medications:

Antacids: For quick relief of mild symptoms.
H2 Receptor Blockers: To reduce acid production.
Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs): To heal the esophagus and reduce acid production.
Prokinetics: To help the stomach empty more quickly.

Surgery:

In severe cases or when medications are not effective, surgery may be necessary to remove damaged portions of the digestive tract.

Why Choose Adithya Gastro and Liver Care Clinic?

Dr. G Harsha Vardhan Reddy and his team at Adithya Gastro and Liver Care Clinic are dedicated to providing comprehensive and compassionate care for patients with GERD. Utilizing the latest diagnostic tools and personalized treatment plans, we aim to help patients manage their condition effectively and improve their quality of life.

Contact Us

If you are experiencing symptoms of GERD, seeking expert medical care is crucial. Contact Adithya Gastro and Liver Care Clinic in Manikonda, Hyderabad, to schedule a consultation with Dr. G Harsha Vardhan Reddy. We are here to help you achieve optimal digestive health and well-being.

GERD