Serving Metro Atlanta
2085 McGee Road, Snellville, GA 30078
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Care for persistent acid reflux
Acid reflux occurs when stomach contents move back into the esophagus. Persistent symptoms deserve assessment so you can discuss the cause and the range of treatment options.
Describe more than heartburn
Heartburn and regurgitation are common reflux symptoms. Some people also have swallowing problems, chronic cough or hoarseness. Symptoms alone do not establish their cause.
Tell your clinician when symptoms occur, how often they interrupt sleep or meals and what you have already tried.
How evaluation guides the next step
A clinician may begin with symptoms and medical history. When needed, tests such as upper endoscopy or reflux monitoring can help investigate persistent symptoms or complications. Ask which tests, if any, would answer the question in your case.
Medicine and procedures have different roles
Treatment may include changes in eating habits and medicines that reduce or neutralize stomach acid. Surgery or an endoscopic procedure may be considered in selected situations.
The practice’s existing page discusses transoral incisionless fundoplication, or TIF, a procedure intended to strengthen the barrier against reflux. Ask whether it is currently offered and how it compares with other options for your condition.
Learn about a reflux procedure
EDUCATIONAL VIDEO
Transoral Incisionless Fundoplication (TIF) using EsophyX
By The Institute of Esophageal and Reflux Surgery
YouTube loads only when you choose to watch. This is an external educational resource; your care team will explain your own operation and risks.
Questions about persistent symptoms
A surgical conversation should include the diagnosis, alternatives and the tradeoffs of treatment.
Does ongoing heartburn mean I need surgery?
Not by itself. Ask whether reflux is the cause, whether further testing is useful and which treatment choices fit the findings.
What should I ask about medicines?
Ask how your current medicines are being used, what benefit to expect and what risks or alternatives to discuss with the prescriber.
Which symptoms need medical attention?
Seek medical assessment for swallowing difficulty, persistent vomiting, unexplained weight loss or signs of bleeding. Chest pain should also be assessed rather than assumed to be reflux.