What type of doctor treats esophagus

They attribute their discomfort to something they ate or drank and self-medicate with over-the-counter antacids, H-2 blockers or proton-pump inhibitors PPI. PPIs, for example, should not be taken regularly for more than two weeks because of their long-term side effects. Studies have linked PPIs to bone fracture, renal failure, heart attack, dementia, Clostridium difficile or C.

If you are suffering from chronic acid reflux, a specialist can help. Access myPennMedicine For Patients and Visitors. Find a Program or Service. Esophageal and Swallowing Disorders Program. Treatment Team Your Appointment. The Penn Medicine Center for Esophageal and Swallowing Disorders offers a coordinated, comprehensive approach to treat esophageal disorders, including: Achalasia: A disorder affecting the ability of the esophagus to move food into the stomach.

Request an Appointment at Mayo Clinic. Share on: Facebook Twitter. Show references Qumseya B, et al. ASGE guideline on screening and surveillance of Barrett's esophagus. Gastrointestinal Endoscopy. Barrett's esophagus. Accessed April 3, Iyer PG, et al. Mayo Clinic Proceedings. Shaheen NJ, et al. Understanding Barrett's esophagus. American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy. Mayo Clinic; Brown AY. Allscripts EPSi. Mayo Clinic. March 12, Fundoplication , usually a specific variation called Nissen fundoplication, is the standard surgical treatment for GERD.

The upper part of the stomach is wrapped around the LES to strengthen the sphincter and prevent acid reflux and to repair a hiatal hernia. This fundoplication procedure may be done using a laparoscope and requires only tiny incisions in the abdomen.

To perform the fundoplication, surgeons use small instruments that hold a tiny camera. Laparoscopic fundoplication has been used safely and effectively in people of all ages, even babies. When performed by experienced surgeons, the procedure is reported to be as good as standard fundoplication.

Furthermore, people can leave the hospital in 1 to 3 days and return to work in 2 to 3 weeks. Endoscopic devices , The U. The Stretta system uses electrodes to create tiny cuts on the LES. When the cuts heal, the scar tissue helps toughen the muscle. The long-term effects of these two procedures are unknown.

Endoscopic devices are rarely used in the management of GERD. Sometimes GERD can cause serious complications. Inflammation of the esophagus from stomach acid causes bleeding or ulcers. In addition, scars from tissue damage can narrow the esophagus and make swallowing difficult. Also, studies have shown that asthma, chronic cough, and pulmonary fibrosis may be aggravated or even caused by GERD. Phone: Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease. The esophagus carries food from the mouth to the stomach When refluxed stomach acid touches the lining of the esophagus, it causes a burning sensation in the chest or throat called heartburn.

Anyone, including infants, children, and pregnant women, can have GERD. What are the symptoms of GERD? What causes GERD? Other factors that may contribute to GERD include: alcohol use excess weight pregnancy smoking Also, certain foods can be associated with reflux events, including: citrus fruits chocolate drinks with caffeine fatty and fried foods garlic and onions mint flavorings spicy foods tomato-based foods, like spaghetti sauce, chili, and pizza Modifying your diet to reduce or eliminate these items can greatly reduce GERD symptoms.

How is GERD treated? Lifestyle Changes If you smoke, stop. Do not drink alcohol. Lose weight if needed.