GERD Specialist
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Rivas Digestive Center
John M Rivas, M.D.
Gastroenterology and Endoscopy & Transplant Hepatology located in Hollywood, FL
About 10-20% of adults worldwide have some form of GERD, along with the heartburn and uncomfortable feelings that are common with this condition. Medications and lifestyle changes can help manage GERD – so you feel like yourself again. With a dedicated, professional medical staff led by John Rivas, MD, Rivas Digestive Center in Hollywood, Florida, offers advanced radio-frequency treatments for GERD tailored to your symptoms. Call today or schedule an online consultation.
GERD Q&A
What is GERD?
Gastroesophageal reflux disease is commonly known as GERD. It happens when your stomach acid flows into the esophagus, the tube that connects your stomach to your mouth. This backwash, also called acid reflux, can irritate the lining of your esophagus, giving you the feeling of heartburn and other symptoms.
While acid reflux happens to almost everybody from time to time, GERD occurs more often. GERD is considered mild acid reflux when it happens at least twice a week. It’s considered moderate to severe acid reflux when it occurs at least once a week.
What are the symptoms of GERD?
Common signs and symptoms of GERD include:
- Heartburn
- Regurgitating, where your stomach contents reach your mouth
- Problems swallowing
- Chest pain
- Feeling like there’s a lump in your throat
It’s a good idea to contact Dr. Rivas and the team at Rivas Digestive Center if you’re having these symptoms often, if your symptoms are severe, or you’re taking over-the-counter heartburn medications more than twice a week.
How is GERD diagnosed?
Dr. Rivas begins by taking a full medical history and performing a physical exam. To confirm your diagnosis, you might need an endoscopy, a noninvasive procedure involving a thin, flexible viewing tube that’s sent down your throat to examine your esophagus and stomach.
Endoscopy can help detect inflammation in your esophagus, called esophagitis, or other complications, and to take a small tissue sample if need be. A tissue sample can help determine if you have a related condition called Barrett's esophagus.
How is GERD treated?
Dr. Rivas and his team design a personalized treatment plan for your symptoms and condition. This plan can include lifestyle changes and over-the-counter or prescription medications to ease your symptoms. Antacids are a common medication prescribed to relieve GERD. You may be asked to avoid certain foods that are high in acidity, such as coffee and other caffeinated beverages. If medications aren’t helping to curb your reflux symptoms, Dr. Rivas may discuss other minimally invasive procedures to help ease your symptoms.
If you’re tired of battling the symptoms of GERD and are seeking high-quality care to enhance your lasting health, call today or book a consultation online with Rivas Digestive Center.
