GERD Awareness Week happens during Thanksgiving, a time when people often overeat rich foods. This can lead to symptoms like heartburn, bloating, and regurgitation. While occasional heartburn is common, experiencing it two or more times a week may indicate a more serious condition called GERD.
What is GERD?
GERD (Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease) affects about 1-in-5 Americans. It happens when the valve between the stomach and esophagus doesn’t work properly, causing stomach contents to flow back into the esophagus. Symptoms include:
- Heartburn (burning in the chest)
- Regurgitation of food or sour liquid
- Difficulty swallowing
- Other possible symptoms are:
- Constant lump-in-the-throat feeling
- Asthma or chronic cough
- Sore throat, laryngitis, or hoarseness
- Tooth erosion
- Non-cardiac chest pain
If untreated, GERD can worsen and lead to serious health issues like Barrett’s esophagus and esophageal cancer.
How to Manage GERD During the Holidays
Here are some tips to control GERD symptoms:
Quit smoking: Nicotine weakens the muscles that prevent stomach contents from flowing back into the esophagus.
Stay active: Even during the holidays, try to maintain some physical activity to help manage symptoms.
Avoid fatty foods: Foods like chips, fried items, and cheese take longer to digest and can worsen GERD.
Drink water: Choose water over juice, soda, and coffee, as these can aggravate symptoms.
Eat earlier: Schedule your big meal earlier in the day and avoid lying down within three hours after eating.
Limit alcohol: Wine, beer, and liquor can trigger reflux.
Watch your desserts: Chocolate and peppermint can trigger GERD symptoms, so choose your treats carefully.
When to See a Doctor
If frequent heartburn is interfering with your daily life, see your primary care provider (PCP). They can:
- Diagnose GERD
- Suggest lifestyle changes or medications
- Recommend surgical solutions if other treatments don’t work
Surgical GERD Treatment Options at Amberwell
At Amberwell Health, Dr. Roderick Warren, a board-certified general surgeon, offers advanced surgical treatment options for GERD. He works closely with each patient to determine the best treatment plan based on their specific needs.
Dr. Warren and his surgical care team will guide you through every step of your treatment— from your initial consultation to your post-surgery care.
Request a Consultation
To discuss surgical treatment options for GERD, contact Amberwell’s surgical care offices at 913-367-6682 in Atchison, 785-742-6286 in Hiawatha, or 913-297-3215 in Leavenworth-Lansing.
