When To Consult a GERD Specialist

A GERD specialist, or gastroenterologist, is a doctor who diagnoses and treats digestive disorders like GERD. These physicians possess advanced training in managing complex or persistent GERD symptoms when initial treatments are not effective. Here is more information about when to consult a GERD specialist:

Chest Pain that Burns

Persistent chest pain that creates a burning sensation is a typical signal of GERD. Heartburn originates behind your breastbone, and it typically worsens after eating or when lying down. While many people experience occasional heartburn, frequent episodes that disrupt your daily life point to a more significant underlying issue that may require specialized evaluation.

Problems Swallowing

Dysphagia, or difficulty swallowing, may indicate GERD-induced irritation or narrowing of the esophagus. You might feel as though food is stuck in your throat, or it may be painful to swallow liquids and solids. This symptom is a reason to seek a medical opinion, so a specialist will perform tests to evaluate your esophagus. The examination helps determine the cause of the swallowing issue.

GERD is a typical cause of swallowing problems. Over time, stomach acid exposure can damage the esophageal lining, leading to inflammation and the formation of scar tissue. This scarring can make the esophagus less flexible and narrower, which directly impacts its ability to move food down to the stomach.

Ignoring swallowing difficulties may lead to further complications. A GERD specialist can assess the extent of any damage and recommend a treatment plan to manage your GERD and improve your ability to swallow comfortably. Since managing the underlying reflux is needed, it remains a primary goal of the treatment approach.

Regurgitation Issues

Regurgitation involves the backward flow of stomach contents into your throat or mouth. You may experience a sour taste from stomach acid, and sometimes, you might bring up small amounts of food. This is different from vomiting because it happens without nausea or forceful muscle contractions.

When regurgitation happens frequently, it signals that your lower esophageal sphincter is not functioning correctly. This muscle is supposed to keep stomach contents from moving back up. If you experience this regularly, it is a good idea to document the frequency and discuss it with a healthcare provider to understand the next steps.

Lump in Your Throat

A persistent sensation of having a lump in your throat, known as globus sensation, is another symptom associated with GERD. This feeling is not related to an actual physical mass, but it can be uncomfortable and worrying. The sensation may be constant or it may come and go throughout the day. People with this symptom often find themselves clearing their throat or swallowing repeatedly to try to relieve the feeling. This sensation may be caused by a few different things:

• Increased muscle tension in the throat.
• Inflammation from stomach acid exposure.
• Heightened sensitivity in the esophagus.

Consult a GERD Specialist

If over-the-counter medications and lifestyle adjustments do not resolve your symptoms, consulting a specialist is a proactive step toward managing your condition. A specialist can provide a detailed diagnosis and develop a personalized treatment plan for you. If you are experiencing ongoing discomfort from GERD symptoms, schedule an appointment with a gastroenterologist to explore your options.

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