Symptoms of Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) Q&A

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is commonly characterized by heartburn, which is a burning sensation felt behind the breastbone or in the upper abdomen, often after eating, when bending over, or while lying down. This discomfort occurs when stomach acid flows back into the esophagus. Another frequent symptom of GERD is regurgitation, where food or acid from the stomach backs up into the mouth, creating a sour or bitter taste.

In addition to these main symptoms, individuals with GERD may also experience persistent coughing, sore throat, or hoarseness, especially in the morning. Some people find it difficult to swallow or may feel the sensation of something being stuck in their throat. Other symptoms can include chest pain or a sensation of tightness in the chest. These symptoms may worsen after consuming certain foods, and beverages, or lying down, and if left untreated, GERD can negatively impact daily life and lead to further complications.

At Internists of North Dallas, Dr. Nabila Aslam, MD, understands that the severity and frequency of GERD symptoms can vary greatly among patients. Our providers emphasize a personalized approach to care. Our physicians are dedicated to thoroughly evaluating your condition, providing an accurate diagnosis, and creating a tailored management plan to help you find relief and improve your overall well-being.

You should consider seeing a doctor about your GERD symptoms if you experience frequent heartburn or acid reflux more than twice a week, or if over-the-counter medications are not providing relief. Persistent symptoms that disrupt your daily activities, such as chronic coughing, sore throat, or difficulty swallowing, may indicate the need for professional evaluation.

If you notice any alarming signs like unintentional weight loss, vomiting, or blood in your stool, it’s essential to seek medical attention promptly. A doctor can assess your condition, determine the severity of your GERD, and recommend an appropriate treatment plan to prevent complications and improve your quality of life.

At Internists of North Dallas, we understand that chronic GERD symptoms can sometimes lead to complications. Regular monitoring from our experienced medical professionals can help prevent these complications. Our doctors may recommend lifestyle modifications or treatments tailored specifically to your needs, ensuring your symptoms are managed effectively and your overall health is protected.

Our experienced physicians frequently manage patients presenting with digestive symptoms such as heartburn, stomach discomfort, and abdominal pain. Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) shares symptoms with various other digestive conditions, which can make it difficult for patients to identify the cause of their discomfort. Recognizing these differences can help in achieving a more accurate diagnosis and effective treatment.

GERD commonly presents as heartburn, a burning sensation in the chest or upper abdomen that worsens after meals, when lying down, or bending forward. Patients often experience regurgitation, with a sour or bitter taste in the mouth. Other symptoms include chronic cough, sore throat, hoarseness, and difficulty swallowing.

Other digestive conditions, such as peptic ulcers, typically cause localized stomach pain described as a gnawing or burning sensation. This pain often improves after eating or using antacids but may worsen when the stomach is empty. Gallbladder disease tends to cause upper right abdominal pain, sometimes radiating to the back or shoulders, along with nausea or vomiting, especially after consuming fatty foods.

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), which affects the lower digestive tract, leads to symptoms like abdominal cramping, bloating, gas, and changes in bowel movements (diarrhea, constipation, or both). Unlike GERD, IBS does not typically include heartburn or acid reflux. Gastritis, which involves inflammation of the stomach lining, presents as continuous stomach discomfort, nausea, and loss of appetite, with a dull, persistent pain rather than the episodic burning of GERD.

At Internists of North Dallas, we know that overlapping symptoms can make self-diagnosis tricky and delay proper care. Our providers conduct thorough evaluations, including medical histories and physical exams, to pinpoint the exact cause of your digestive issues. This allows us to offer targeted treatments and personalized care plans for lasting relief.

Our physicians understand that lifestyle changes play a critical role in effectively managing gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Internal medicine specialists work closely with patients to create personalized plans for managing GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease). A key approach is dietary changes, including reducing the intake of fatty, spicy, acidic, or fried foods, which can help alleviate irritation and reflux episodes. Eating smaller, more frequent meals instead of large portions can also prevent stomach distention and reduce pressure on the lower esophageal sphincter.

Maintaining a healthy weight is crucial since excess weight can increase abdominal pressure and worsen reflux symptoms. A balanced approach combining proper nutrition and regular physical activity is important for digestive health. Patients are also encouraged to avoid intense exercise right after meals to prevent triggering reflux.

Sleep habits play a significant role in managing GERD. Elevating the head of the bed or using a wedge pillow can help prevent stomach acid from reaching the esophagus at night. It is also advised to wait for some time after eating before lying down to ensure proper digestion and reduce reflux. Reducing or eliminating tobacco and alcohol use, which can weaken the lower esophageal sphincter, is highly recommended. Limiting caffeine and carbonated drinks, which are common reflux triggers, can also significantly improve symptoms.

At Internists of North Dallas, we recognize that stress can exacerbate digestive conditions like GERD. Our compassionate team is here to support you every step of the way in achieving optimal digestive health and overall wellness. For more information, contact us or schedule an appointment online. We are conveniently located at 4500 N MacArthur Blvd #130, Irving, TX 75038. We serve patients from Irving TX, Coppell TX, Euless TX, Las Colinas TX, Farmers Branch TX, Valley Ranch TX, and surrounding areas.