Gastroesophageal Reflux (GER), more commonly known as acid reflux, occurs when stomach acid leaks into the esophagus. A house call doctor is ideal for both diagnosing and treating this condition.
What is Acid Reflux?
GER, also known as acid reflux, is a condition in which stomach acid leaks into the esophagus. In healthy individuals, the lower esophageal sphincter, a small muscle located between the end of your esophagus and your stomach, keeps stomach acid out of your esophagus. In individuals with acid reflux, this muscle has weakened and allows some acid to wash back into your esophagus, causing uncomfortable or painful symptoms.
This acid often contains some stomach contents and can leave a sour or unpleasant taste on the back of your tongue.
Symptoms of Acid Reflux
The symptoms of acid reflux often, but not always, occur after eating. When you eat, your stomach produces extra acid to digest your food. A weakened lower esophageal sphincter, or one that does not fully close, will allow some of these digestive juices to leak into your esophagus, causing symptoms.
The symptoms of acid reflux include:
- Heartburn
- Belching
- Dyspepsia
- Bloating
- Indigestion
- Pain or discomfort in your upper abdomen
Left untreated, acid reflux can progress to a chronic condition known as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).
Causes of Acid Reflux
Acid reflux is most often triggered by eating, especially large meals, or spicy, acidic, or fatty foods.
In adults, acid reflux most often occurs because the lower esophageal sphincter, a small muscle which keeps acid in your stomach, is weak or eroded and allows acid into your esophagus. Acid reflux may also be triggered by stress in some individuals. Bending over or lying flat on your back can also trigger acid reflux.
In infants, GERD often occurs when the lower esophageal sphincter has not fully developed.
When to See a Doctor for Acid Reflux
Acid reflux can happen to anyone, and symptoms generally subside on their own within a day or two. If your symptoms persist, however, you may want to call Concierge MD. You may also want to contact us if you notice any of the following:
- If you start having difficulty swallowing
- If you start having pain while swallowing
- If your symptoms happen more than two times per week
- If you start having pain while breathing
- If you develop a persistent cough
- If you develop a persistent sore throat
- If you start vomiting, especially on a frequent basis
These symptoms may be indicators of GERD or another condition, so it’s best to get evaluated by a healthcare professional promptly to avoid long-term complications.
House Calls for Acid Reflux: The Concierge MD Difference
Acid reflux is treatable at home. Medications such as proton pump inhibitors and antacids, especially when combined with diet and lifestyle changes, can greatly reduce the amount of acid in your stomach. Seeking treatment as soon as you notice symptoms can help you prevent acid reflux from becoming GERD.
Concierge MD will help you treat not only your symptoms, but help you build a custom health plan designed to minimize your exposure to acid reflux trigger foods. Our functional medicine approach is tailored to fit your lifestyle and individual needs. We bring the appointment to your door so you don’t have to spend time in L.A. traffic or in the waiting room of your local clinic. Whether you’re at home, at the office, at a hotel, or elsewhere in Los Angeles, we bring the benefits traditional medicine directly to you.
Our members enjoy the benefits of Telemedicine, where we consult with you over the phone for questions or make recommendations for long-term wellness. We also refill prescriptions over the phone so that getting the medication you need is a snap.