Acid reflux (gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) occurs when stomach contents flow back into the esophagus, causing irritation and discomfort. It can lead to heartburn, chest pain, regurgitation, and difficulty swallowing. The bothersome nature of acid reflux can interfere with daily activities and impact the quality of life for those who experience it regularly. It can also lead to complications such as esophageal inflammation or ulcers or even as serious as Barrett’s esophagus and esophageal cancer.

Dr. Sunny Lo at SoCal Digestive Wellness can treat acid reflux in Arcadia, CA, through various methods, including lifestyle changes such as weight loss and avoiding trigger foods, medications such as antacids or proton pump inhibitors, or recommend a surgical procedure to strengthen the lower esophageal sphincter. The best course of treatment depends on the severity of the condition and the individual's specific symptoms.

Acid Reflux Prevention

Acid reflux can be a real pain in the gut, but the good news is that there are plenty of ways to prevent it from ruining your day. Here are some tips to help you avoid the discomfort and irritation of acid reflux.

First and foremost, try to maintain a healthy weight. Excess body fat can put pressure on your stomach and cause acid to reflux into your esophagus. Next, avoid foods and drinks that trigger acid reflux, such as spicy or fatty foods, alcohol, citrus fruits, carbonated drinks, chocolates, excess tomatoes, excess onions, and caffeine. Instead, choose a healthy, balanced diet with plenty of fiber and healthy nutrition to be taken in moderation.

Another essential step is to eat slowly and chew your food thoroughly. This tiny change helps your body break down the food more easily and reduces the likelihood of acid reflux. It's also a good idea to avoid lying down immediately after eating and wait at least two to three hours before bed.

Lastly, try to reduce stress in your life. Tension can increase stomach acid production, making acid reflux more likely. Try incorporating stress-reducing activities into your daily routine, such as yoga, meditation, or deep breathing exercises.

Diagnosis and Treatment

During a discussion with Dr. Lo about acid reflux diagnosis and treatment, expect him to ask about your symptoms, medical history, and lifestyle habits.

He'll perform a physical exam and possibly order diagnostic tests like an endoscopy or pH monitoring to confirm a diagnosis. Based on the results, lifestyle changes like avoiding trigger foods, weight loss, and elevating the head of your bed could treat acid reflux. Medications like proton pump inhibitors or H2 blockers can also reduce acid production and alleviate the burning and discomfort associated with the condition.

Please explore our website to learn about the conditions we treat and the services provided. If you have questions about acid reflux and want to schedule an appointment with Dr. Lo at SoCal Digestive Wellness in Arcadia, CA, call (818) 659-5887.