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GERD Specialist

Stephen Steele, MD Our Services GERD

Stephen Steele, MD

Gastroenterologist & Internal Medicine Specialist located in Texarkana, TX

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) affects about 20% of people in the United States and causes ongoing indigestion that may increase the risk of other health complications. At his practice in Texarkana, Texas, Stephen Steele, MD, specializes in diagnosing and treating GERD. He offers advanced diagnostic testing to determine the underlying cause of GERD and look for signs of other health problems. For comprehensive GERD care, call the office or book an appointment online today.

GERD Q&A

What is GERD?

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a chronic gastrointestinal condition that causes repeat episodes of heartburn and indigestion. 

It occurs because the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) that separates the stomach from the esophagus can’t completely close, allowing the acidic contents of the stomach to reflux up into the esophagus.

Over time, the acid from your stomach damages the esophagus, leading to problems such as esophagitis, esophageal strictures, Barrett’s esophagus, or esophageal cancer. 

Though common, GERD requires ongoing medical care and monitoring to prevent health complications. 

What are the symptoms of GERD?

Though heartburn is the most common symptom of GERD, not everyone with this chronic gastrointestinal condition has the same symptoms. With GERD, your symptoms may include:

  • Pain in your chest, throat, or stomach
  • Difficulty swallowing
  • Bad taste in the back of your throat
  • Bad breath
  • Hiccups
  • Laryngitis
  • Ongoing cough
  • Nausea
  • Loss of appetite

Being overweight or obese increases your risk of GERD. A hiatal hernia is also a common cause of GERD.

What happens during a GERD evaluation?

When you visit Dr. Steele for a GERD evaluation, you can expect a comprehensive exam. Dr. Steele first asks detailed questions about your GERD, including the types of symptoms you feel and when and how often they occur.

He performs a physical exam and may run various tests to better understand the root cause of your GERD and confirm or rule out any associated health complications. Testing may include:

Esophageal pH monitoring

An esophageal pH monitoring test measures and records the acid levels in your esophagus over a 24-hour period. Dr. Steele performs this test to determine the frequency, duration, and intensity of your acid reflux. 

Esophageal manometry

An esophageal manometry evaluates the movement, strength, and coordination of your esophagus, as well as the strength of your LES. 

Upper endoscopy

During an upper endoscopy, Dr. Steele uses an endoscope to evaluate your upper gastrointestinal tract to look for signs of damage. 

How is GERD treated?

Dr. Steele may recommend a combination of lifestyle changes and medication to treat GERD. Your plan may include:

  • Weight loss
  • Diet modification
  • Antacids
  • H2 blockers — to decrease stomach acid production
  • Proton-pump inhibitors (PPI) — to reduce stomach acid production

With GERD, Dr. Steele schedules regular follow-up appointments to monitor your symptoms and adjust your treatment plan as needed. 

If you continue to have GERD symptoms after lifestyle changes and medication, Dr. Steele may suggest surgery to tighten the LES.

For expert management of GERD, call Stephen Steele, MD, or request an appointment online today.

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