From an article by
Dr. Deepak Chowdhary & Dr. Davinderbir Pannu
McLeod Digestive Center

If you’ve had that uncomfortable episode with distasteful stomach contents coming back up into your throat, you’re no stranger to acid reflux.

MEDICATIONS
Suffering reflux more than twice a week indicates you may have a more serious condition, known as Gastrointestinal Esophageal Reflux Disease (GERD), that requires treatment.  These symptoms can be treated with over-the-counter or prescription medications, such as Prilosec, Prevacid or Nexium.

SURGICAL TREATMENTS
If the medications and a change in diet don’t resolve the GERD, a gastroenterologist may turn to one of several commonly used surgical procedures, such as Nissen Fundoplication or a modification, Magnetic Sphincter Augmentation (the LINX procedure). Each procedure tries to surgically reinforce the valve connecting the stomach to the esophagus, prevent reflux.

A NEW NON-SURGICAL OPTION
“A newer option is the Trans-oral Incisionless Fundoplication (TIF), which uses an endoscope that goes down the throat, eliminating incisions in the abdomen or chest,” says McLeod Gastroenterologist Dr. Deepak Chowdhary. “Patient benefits of TIF include shorter treatment, less pain and faster recovery than the surgical options.”

“Many TIF patients go home the same day or may require only a short hospital stay,” says McLeod Gastroenterologist Dr. Davinderbir Pannu. “In the first 24 hours after the procedure, patients are only allowed clear liquids. They can then switch to a week of soft foods and gradually return to a regular diet. During recovery, patients should rest and recuperate carefully. They may be prescribed antibiotics or medications for symptoms. Most patients are back to normal daily activities in three to four weeks.”

As with all medical treatments, not all patients are appropriate for TIF, but it is an option for those suffering acid reflux.

ACTION YOU CAN TAKE
If you suffer from repeated acid reflux, talk with your primary care physician about medications and other options available with a referral to a Gastroenterologist.

Find a Gastroenterologist near you.