Acid Reflux in Ocean Springs, MS
Ready to Consult a GI Physician?
Find a ProviderWhat exactly is acid reflux?
Anytime an individual swallows food or liquids, it passes through the esophagus into the stomach. There is a muscle located between our esophagus and stomach known as the lower esophageal sphincter (LES). This closes and opens, permitting the passage of food into the stomach.
All individuals have stomach acid to assist in the digestion of their food. Unfortunately, if the lower esophageal sphincter does not close completely, it can allow a portion of that acid to flow in reverse and up into the esophagus, sometimes causing damage and/or chronic acid reflux. This is when we experience “heartburn” from acid reflux because the acid creates a burning sensation. At Digestive Health Center, our experienced gastroenterologists routinely help manage acid reflux and can help relieve heartburn and other symptoms. If you need to find a provider who offers acid reflux treatment in Ocean Springs, MS, reach out to a nearby location today.
What are the causes of acid reflux or heartburn?
Even though acid reflux is common, there is not one specific root cause of acid reflux. Many factors may contribute to a weakening of the lower esophageal sphincter, which could then permit acid from our stomach, to move in reverse back up the digestive tract. Acid reflux might be caused by various medications, foods, preexisting conditions, or activities following eating. Varying factors can affect a person's reflux in very different ways. Some common factors contributing to acid reflux might include:
- Specific medications (such as ibuprofen, aspirin, muscle relaxers, and those for blood pressure)
- Consumption of alcohol (red wine in particular)
- Smoking
- Having a weak or sub-optimal LES
- Sparkling beverages
- Hiatal hernia
- Eating a heavy meal and then lying down
- Fatty or spicy foods
- Pregnancy
- Low-fiber diet
- Consuming caffeine
- Being overweight or obese
- Citrus fruits, chocolate, tomatoes, garlic, peppermint, raw onions, and black pepper
What are common symptoms of acid reflux?
Often, acid reflux is called heartburn. Common symptoms of acid reflux might include:
- Gas
- Dysphagia
- Unexplained weight loss
- The feeling of a lump in the throat
- Regurgitation of sour liquids or food
- Pain in the chest
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms persistently, then you may be suffering from a condition known as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). If that is the situation, we urge you to contact a Digestive Health Center provider without delay.
How can a person relieve acid reflux?
The best and most successful method for relieving acid reflux is to consult with a board-certified gastrointestinal provider in Ocean Springs, MS. However, some lifestyle changes can be implemented that may help lessen the severity and frequency of symptoms. These may include (but are not limited to):
- Refraining from eating for a minimum of two hours before going to bed
- Limiting your caffeine intake
- Eating slowly and in moderation
- Avoiding "trigger" foods and beverages
- Consistently standing or sitting upright after eating
- Sleeping at an incline with your feet lower than your head
- Telling your gastroenterologist about the medications you are currently taking
- Stopping smoking
- Losing weight (if overweight)
What is the difference between GERD and acid reflux?
Most adults have known the burning sensation of acid reflux at some point in their lives. However, GERD is the more problematic and recurring type of acid reflux. GERD is most often diagnosed when a person suffers from acid reflux more frequently than twice a week, as well as inflammation in the esophagus. If you suffer from indications of acid reflux more than twice a week, we urge you to partner with a gastrointestinal specialist at your earliest opportunity.
Find treatment for acid reflux
If recurring acid reflux or other troubling gastrointestinal issues arise, connect with a digestive health specialist. The distinguished providers at Digestive Health Center strive to inform and help patients with gastrointestinal conditions, such as acid reflux and GERD. If you or a loved one suspect GERD or needs help for acid reflux in Ocean Springs, MS, reach out to a nearby location today to request an appointment.
Acid Reflux FAQs
When do I need to see a doctor for acid reflux?
It is encouraged to reach out to a gastroenterologist if you endure acid reflux at least twice a week, as you may be struggling with gastrointestinal reflux disease. Gastrointestinal reflux disease is a serious class of acid reflux that could end up damaging the upper GI tract if left untreated. The team of gastroenterologists at Digestive Health Center can review your current symptoms and determine a diagnosis of GERD. Our team may also help you identify triggers of acid reflux to control symptoms.
How long does acid reflux take to settle after treatment?
Acid reflux treatment often includes a combination of medicine and changes in diet. After you discover the ideal treatment that helps, it can take a few weeks before your body begins to heal and notice results.
Are there any foods and beverages I should avoid with acid reflux?
Yes, certain drinks and food can result in or amplify symptoms. A few foods you may want to think about avoiding if you suffer from acid reflux include:
- Spicy foods
- Peppermint
- Carbonated and caffeinated drinks (such as coffee, tea, soda, and seltzer)
- Foods high in fat
- Foods with a lot of grease
- Alcohol
How can I relieve acid reflux without depending on medicine?
While there are OTC and prescription medicines that may help your symptoms, there are several other treatment plans you can look into that do not include medication. A few of these include:
- Eat smaller meals more frequently each day instead of the standard larger three meals. This can help you avoid getting overly full, which can lead to additional reflux.
- Don’t go to bed as soon as you finish dinner. Our GI specialists suggest you refrain from eating three hours before bedtime so the acid can reside in your stomach instead of regurgitating back up.
- If you are a person who is overweight or obese, it’s suggested that you consider losing weight. Your doctor can work with you to create a weight loss plan focused on your needs and goals.
- Stop smoking cigarettes or additional tobacco products
Reviews
Dr McNair has treated me since 1983. My Mother n law was seriously ill in SRH. Dr McNair came in ICU and saved her life. That year 1983 I made an appt to be one of his patients. He had not been on the Coast very long at all. But took me as new patient…I still am a patient of Dr A McNair. He’s Brilliant. I love the whole team❤️ May 1, 2023
He is the bomb! I LOVED him when I was sick. And he is very entertaining too.
Dr. Mcnair in my opinion is a wonderful, competent doctor. He shows the individual respect and allows them to participate in decisions concerning their own health and accepts deviations from the "norm" without pressure or ridicule to conform.
Dr McNair is extremely knowledgeable in his profession and has an excellent bedside manner. He explains what he is doing in terms that I can understand. Him and his staff is always professional!!!
My first visit was very helpful, and gave me a sense of understanding and compassion that I had yet to recieve from another GI doctor. I pray that we will get my issues resolved, and I am feeling quite confident in this Doctor's plan of action. Highly recommend!
10
Total Reviews
4.9
Average Rating