Acid reflux is also known as heart burn, and GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease).  Symptoms of acid reflux are burning in the middle of your chest, feeling like your have a lump in your throat.  Acid reflux often happens after meals and while sleeping. 

Long-Term Effects of Acid Reflux

• If acid reflux is not controlled it can cause damage to your esophagus (the tube that connects your mouth to your stomach.  This damage can put you at risk for Barretts esophagus which makes it difficult to swallow and esophageal cancer.

We can control your symptoms

• There are many prescription medications that can help control acid reflux.

• Lifestyle changes, like changing what food you eat and avoiding large meals may also help.

But medication doesn't help

• We can treat most cases of acid reflux but some people may need a consult with a specialist.  Some people may have a lower esophageal sphincter that does not work correctly and this can sometimes be fixed with surgery.  Your lower esophageal sphincter is the door between your stomach and your esophagus.  If your lower esophageal spincter does not close correctly then the acid from your stomach will escape into your esophagus.