Gastroesophageal reflux (GER) happens when stomach acid leaks from the stomach into the esophagus. This can cause irritation and inflammation of the esophagus and lead to heartburn.

While occasional GER can happen to anyone, chronic GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease) can significantly affect your quality of life. It can cause frequent heartburn, trouble swallowing, chest pain, and even increase your risk for complications like esophageal cancer.

If you’re experiencing GERD symptoms frequently, it’s important to see a doctor. Untreated GERD can lead to long-term damage to your esophagus and overall health.

Here are some factors to keep in mind when deciding whether to see a doctor for your GERD:.

Frequency and severity of symptoms

If you experience frequent and severe heartburn (more than twice a week), it’s time to see a doctor. Heartburn that disrupts your sleep or makes it hard to eat or drink is a significant problem, and you may need treatment to manage GERD.

Other symptoms to watch out for include regurgitation, sore throat, and chest pain.

Lifestyle changes that don’t work

If you’re experiencing GERD symptoms despite making lifestyle changes like eating smaller, frequent meals, avoiding spicy and fatty foods, not eating before bedtime, and losing weight, you should see a doctor.

Lifestyle changes can help to prevent GERD and manage mild symptoms, but if your condition isn’t improving, you need medical intervention.

Complications of GERD

If you’re experiencing complications of GERD, you should see a doctor right away. Complications of GERD include esophageal ulcers, Barrett’s esophagus, strictures (narrowing of the esophagus), and even esophageal cancer in rare cases.

If left untreated, GERD can also increase your risk of respiratory problems, including pneumonia and asthma.

Age and medical history

If you’re over the age of 50 and experiencing symptoms of GERD, you should see a doctor even if your symptoms are mild. This is because older adults are more at risk for complications of GERD, including cancer.

Additionally, if you have a history of GERD, you should see a doctor if your symptoms come back after a period of remission.

Types of doctors to see

If you’re experiencing GERD symptoms, there are several types of doctors who can help you manage your condition:.

Primary care physician: Your primary care physician can diagnose GERD and recommend treatments to manage your symptoms.
Gastroenterologist: A gastroenterologist is a specialist who can perform diagnostic tests like endoscopy and pH monitoring to evaluate the severity of your GERD. They can also recommend surgical and non-surgical treatments for GERD.
Otolaryngologist: An otolaryngologist, also known as an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) doctor, specializes in treating conditions that affect the ear, nose, and throat. If you’re experiencing throat-related GERD symptoms like hoarseness or sore throat, an ENT doctor can help provide treatment.

Treatment options for GERD

If you decide to see a doctor for GERD, there are several treatment options available. Your treatment plan will depend on the severity of your symptoms and any underlying conditions you may have. Here are some treatment options your doctor may recommend:.

Lifestyle changes

Lifestyle changes are the first line of defense against GERD. Your doctor may recommend you make changes to your diet, like avoiding trigger foods, eating smaller, more frequent meals, and not lying down after eating.

You may also be advised to quit smoking, lose weight, and avoid wearing tight-fitting clothing that can put pressure on your abdomen.

Medications

There are several types of medications that can be used to treat GERD:.

Antacids: Over-the-counter antacids can neutralize stomach acid and provide temporary relief from heartburn.
Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs): PPIs are prescription medications that reduce the amount of acid your stomach produces. They can be more effective than antacids for managing GERD symptoms.
H2 blockers: H2 blockers are another type of medication that reduces the amount of acid your stomach produces. They’re not as strong as PPIs but can be helpful if you’re experiencing mild GERD symptoms.

Surgery

If your GERD is severe and doesn’t respond to other treatments, you may need surgery. The most common type of surgery for GERD is called laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication.

This procedure involves wrapping the upper part of your stomach around the lower esophageal sphincter to reinforce it and prevent stomach acid from leaking into the esophagus.

Conclusion

Gastroesophageal reflux disease can significantly affect your quality of life, but it’s treatable. If you’re experiencing frequent or severe GERD symptoms, it’s important to see a doctor.

They can diagnose your condition, recommend treatments, and help you manage your symptoms. With the right treatment plan, you can enjoy a better quality of life and avoid complications of GERD.