FAQS About Acid Reflux

Acid reflux occurs when stomach acid flows back into the esophagus, whereas heartburn is the burning sensation often caused by this reflux. Acid reflux can exist without noticeable heartburn symptoms. At Internists of North Dallas, Dr. Nabila Aslam, M.D., and the team evaluate both reflux and heartburn to determine the underlying cause and provide effective symptom management.

Yes, acid reflux often worsens at night due to lying down, which allows acid to move more easily into the esophagus. Nighttime reflux can disrupt sleep and increase discomfort. Dr. Nabila Aslam and the team at Internists of North Dallas help patients identify triggers and recommend strategies such as timing meals and sleeping positions to reduce nighttime reflux.

Acid reflux is very common, affecting millions of adults worldwide, with symptoms ranging from occasional heartburn to chronic GERD. Lifestyle and dietary habits contribute significantly. At Internists of North Dallas, our team provides thorough assessments to diagnose and manage acid reflux in patients, helping improve daily comfort and long-term digestive health.

Severity is determined by frequency of symptoms, response to medications, and findings from diagnostic tests like endoscopy or pH monitoring. Complications such as esophagitis indicate more severe reflux. Dr. Nabila Aslam and her team at Internists of North Dallas help patients understand the severity of their condition and develop strategies to control symptoms and prevent complications.

Doctors use symptom diaries, patient interviews, and sometimes 24-hour pH monitoring to track reflux episodes and identify triggers. At Internists of North Dallas, we monitor reflux frequency closely to tailor treatment plans for effective symptom control.

Dietary habits can trigger or worsen reflux, so doctors review food intake to identify patterns and potential contributors like spicy, fatty, or acidic foods. Dr. Nabila Aslam and the team at Internists of North Dallas provide dietary guidance and recommendations to help manage acid reflux alongside other treatment strategies.

Yes, conditions such as obesity, hiatal hernia, pregnancy, or connective tissue disorders can increase the risk of reflux. At Internists of North Dallas, we evaluate overall health and related conditions to ensure comprehensive reflux management and prevention strategies.

Lifestyle changes like elevating the head of the bed, avoiding trigger foods, losing weight, and eating smaller meals can help manage symptoms. Our team at Internists of North Dallas guide patients on safe lifestyle interventions to reduce reflux episodes naturally while monitoring for complications.

Medications include antacids, H2 blockers, and proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) to reduce acid production or neutralize stomach acid. At Internists of North Dallas, Dr. Nabila Aslam and the team prescribe and monitor medications to ensure effectiveness and minimize potential side effects.

Yes, some medications may cause headaches, nausea, diarrhea, or long-term effects like nutrient absorption issues with prolonged PPI use. Dr. Nabila Aslam and her team at Internists of North Dallas monitor patients closely to adjust therapy and manage any medication-related side effects safely.

Yes, certain endoscopic treatments like fundoplication or radiofrequency therapy can help control reflux in select patients with persistent symptoms. At Internists of North Dallas, we evaluate patients to determine if endoscopic procedures are appropriate, providing guidance on risks and benefits.

Reflux may return if underlying triggers are not addressed or medication is stopped abruptly, highlighting the importance of lifestyle management. Dr. Nabila Aslam and her team at Internists of North Dallas help patients develop long-term strategies to prevent recurrence after medication therapy.

Doctors consider symptom severity, frequency, response to previous treatments, and underlying health conditions when selecting medications. At Internists of North Dallas, we customize reflux therapy to balance effectiveness and safety for each patient’s needs.

Common triggers include spicy foods, citrus, tomatoes, chocolate, caffeine, carbonated drinks, and fatty or fried foods. Dr. Nabila Aslam and her team at Internists of North Dallas provide personalized dietary recommendations to help reduce reflux flare-ups and improve digestive health.

Exercise can both help and worsen reflux; high-impact or abdominal exercises may trigger symptoms, while moderate activity aids digestion and weight management. At Internists of North Dallas, Dr. Nabila Aslam and the team guide patients on safe exercise practices to minimize reflux while promoting 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.