Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)

Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease at Rocky Mountain Gastroenterology

Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease Treatment in Centennial, CO

Our Team Can Treat Your GERD

For some individuals, eating or drinking is challenging because of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). It causes difficulty swallowing, heartburn, and various other symptoms. But Rocky Mountain Gastroenterology Associates can help. Our physician-owned practice has 15 convenient locations throughout the region, including in Denver, Centennial, Aurora, Brighton, Littleton, and beyond. We use state-of-the-art equipment and innovative medical techniques to diagnose and treat an array of gastrointestinal diseases. Our team of medical professionals has been serving the community for more than 20 years, and we are confident we can provide you with relief. Call our friendly team today to learn more.

What Is Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease?

Also known as acid reflux, gastroesophageal reflux disease is a disorder that affects the esophagus, a muscle that connects the mouth to the stomach. The condition’s characteristics include stomach acid flowing back into the esophagus, which irritates its lining. It is not uncommon for people to experience acid reflux periodically. But when it starts to occur two or more times per week, you should seek treatment from Rocky Mountain Gastroenterology Associates. We will diagnose your condition and explain ways you can manage it.

Recognizing the Symptoms of GERD

Not everyone experiences GERD in the same way. It can manifest itself in many forms, so it is important to recognize common symptoms associated with the disease. Some individuals only experience nighttime acid reflux, which is characterized by a chronic cough, laryngitis, or disrupted sleep. Overall, however, the most common sign of GERD is frequent heartburn. Others include:

  • Asthma
  • Chest pain
  • Difficulty swallowing
  • Frequent burping
  • Hoarseness
  • Regurgitation of food or liquid
  • Sore throat
  • The feeling of a lump in your throat
  • Vomiting

Additionally, you may experience alarming symptoms that necessitate immediate medical attention. Among them are weight loss, choking while trying to swallow, vomiting blood, or red or black stools.

Common Causes of GERD

Risk factors that contribute to the development of GERD include obesity, connective tissue disorders, and smoking. If left untreated, your GERD can lead to the narrowing of your esophagus, open sores in your esophagus, and other complications. Our team can help you understand what may be causing your condition. Among the most common causes of GERD are:

  • Muscle weakness
  • Certain foods or dietary habits
  • Hiatal hernia

We Will Diagnose Your Condition Accurately

When you visit Rocky Mountain Gastroenterology Associates, our physicians will begin your consultation by reviewing your medical history and conducting a thorough physical examination. We will then discuss your lifestyle habits to form a baseline understanding of your health. If you are experiencing one or more symptoms of GERD, we may perform the following tests to confirm a diagnosis:

  • Upper Gastrointestinal (GI) Endoscopy – We will use an endoscope to view your upper GI tract. During this procedure, we may also perform a biopsy of the tissue lining your esophagus.
  • Esophageal pH Monitoring – Our team can detect stomach acid in your esophagus by monitoring your pH levels with a catheter or wireless capsule.
  • X-rays – Imaging tests can identify complications that result from GERD.

Various Treatment Options for GERD

Most likely, we will first try to treat your GERD through lifestyle changes. Changing your eating habits and maintaining a healthy routine can minimize your acid reflux and eliminate your symptoms. If you are still experiencing complications after a few weeks, we will suggest over-the-counter or prescription medications. These solutions can block acid production, strengthen your esophagus, or neutralize stomach acid. However, if medications do not control your GERD, we may have to perform surgery to remedy your condition.

Contact Rocky Mountain Gastroenterology Associates Today

If you experience heartburn multiple times a week, you may have gastroesophageal reflux disease. The team at Rocky Mountain Gastroenterology Associates can diagnose and treat your condition and its symptoms at any of our convenient locations throughout the region. Visit us in Denver, Centennial, Brighton, or Lakewood, CO. Contact us today to request an appointment.

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