Do I need to see a doctor for heartburn?

Do I need to see a doctor for heartburn?

An occasional episode of heartburn is normal, but if you’re experiencing heartburn several times a week, you’ll need to see a doctor. Chronic acid reflux is known as gastroesophageal reflux disease or GERD.

What type of doctor treats heartburn?

If you have had heartburn or any of the other symptoms for a while, you should see your doctor. You may want to visit an internist (a doctor who specializes in internal medicine) or a gastroenterologist (a doctor who treats diseases of the stomach and intestines).

How is heartburn usually treated?

What Are the Treatments for Heartburn? Your health care provider may suggest antacids for occasional heartburn. Sometimes, more potent medications such as H2 blockers and proton pump inhibitors may be needed, especially for persistent symptoms. Both prescription and over-the-counter choices are available.

How do doctors test for acid reflux?

Your doctor may perform an esophageal manometry to help diagnose acid reflux. This is a test to assess your esophageal function. It also checks to see if the esophageal sphincter — a valve between the stomach and esophagus — is working as well as it should.

Is GERD permanent?

GERD can be a problem if it’s not treated because, over time, the reflux of stomach acid damages the tissue lining the esophagus, causing inflammation and pain. In adults, long-lasting, untreated GERD can lead to permanent damage of the esophagus and sometimes even cancer.

What is the main cause of GERD?

GERD is caused by frequent acid reflux. When you swallow, a circular band of muscle around the bottom of your esophagus (lower esophageal sphincter) relaxes to allow food and liquid to flow into your stomach.

Can Gerd start at any age?

Anyone can develop GERD at any age but you are more likely to develop it as you get older. Pregnant women are especially prone to reflux.

Where is Gerd most common?

GERD is a chronic and highly prevalent disorder. A recent systematic review showed that the prevalence of GERD is 18.1–27.8% in North America, 8.8–25.9% in Europe, 2.5–7.8% in East Asia, 8.7–33.1% in the Middle East, 11.6% in Australia, and 23.0% in South America.

Is it OK to take Gaviscon everyday?

Is it safe to take Gaviscon for a long time? Gaviscon doesn’t usually cause problems when you take it for a long time. Tell your doctor if you need to take it regularly for more than a week.