Are You Struggling With GERD?
Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD). It is a severe digestive disorder that occurs when stomach acid or bile refluxes or reenters your esophagus (the tube leading from your mouth to your stomach). This reflux irritates the esophagus lining and causes a number of symptoms such as heartburn. The doctors at Swan Gastro & Surgery Center, located in Tucson, AZ, are all board-certified gastroenterologists. They specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of GERD and other gastrointestinal disorders.
Symptoms of GERD
You may be suffering from GERD if you are experiencing the following symptoms:
- Burning in the throat or chest
- A bitter taste of bile in your mouth
- Tightness in your chest
- Hoarseness or a dry throat
- Nausea and/or vomiting
- A dry, unproductive cough
- Regurgitation of food or bile
Tucson residents find that discussing their symptoms with a gastroenterologist can help them find a treatment and make lifestyle changes that can help to relieve the symptoms of GERD.
Diagnosing GERD
Typically, your gastroenterologist will perform an endoscopy to diagnose GERD. This is a common outpatient procedure. The doctor will insert a narrow tube containing a miniaturized camera into your mouth and down into your gastrointestinal tract. He will gently guide the tube through your esophagus, stomach, and small intestine. This allows your doctor to examine the tissue that lines your digestive tract. Signs of inflammation or ulceration will indicate that you are suffering from GERD.
Your doctor may also perform an esophageal acid test. For this procedure, a small tube is positioned in your esophagus. Attached to it is a sensor that detects and measures acid reflux for a 24-hour period. Your doctor will analyze the results to see if you have abnormal levels of acid reflux.
If you live in or around Tucson and you would like to speak to a gastroenterologist call (520) 795-3090 to speak to one of the doctors at Swan Gastro & Surgery Center.