Acid Reflux & GERD Treatment in Boynton Beach, FL
Occasional heartburn after a big meal is common, but frequent burning, regurgitation, or chest discomfort may be a sign of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). At Trudell Doctor, M.D. & Associates, we help patients in Boynton Beach, FL identify what is triggering their reflux, find lasting relief, and protect the esophagus from long-term damage.
What Is GERD?
GERD occurs when stomach acid repeatedly flows back into the esophagus, the tube that connects your mouth to your stomach. This happens when the lower esophageal sphincter, a ring of muscle that normally keeps acid in the stomach, weakens or relaxes at the wrong times. Reflux that occurs two or more times a week is often considered GERD.
Common Symptoms
- Burning sensation in the chest (heartburn), often after eating or at night
- Sour or bitter taste in the mouth
- Regurgitation of food or liquid
- Difficulty swallowing or a feeling of a lump in the throat
- Chronic cough, hoarseness, or sore throat
- Worsening symptoms when lying down
Chest pain should never be ignored. Because heartburn can sometimes feel like a heart problem, we take chest symptoms seriously and evaluate your cardiovascular health when appropriate. If you have severe chest pain or shortness of breath, call 911.
What Causes or Worsens Reflux?
Common contributors include excess weight or obesity, large or late-night meals, spicy and fatty foods, caffeine, alcohol, smoking, certain medications, and hiatal hernias. Pregnancy and hormonal changes can also play a role, which is why reflux is sometimes discussed during women’s health visits.
Diagnosis
Most patients can be diagnosed based on their symptoms and history during a primary care visit. If symptoms are severe, persistent, or include warning signs such as trouble swallowing, weight loss, or vomiting, we coordinate referral to a gastroenterology specialist for further testing such as an upper endoscopy.
Treatment Options
- Diet changes, including identifying and avoiding trigger foods
- Eating smaller meals and avoiding food two to three hours before bed
- Elevating the head of your bed
- Weight loss support through our medical weight loss program
- Over-the-counter or prescription acid-reducing medications
- Specialist referral for persistent or complicated cases
Why Treating GERD Matters
Untreated reflux can lead to inflammation of the esophagus, narrowing, and a condition called Barrett’s esophagus, which raises the risk of esophageal cancer. Addressing symptoms early, along with routine preventative care, helps protect your digestive health. Patients with conditions such as diabetes may also experience digestive changes that we monitor closely. Learn about other conditions we treat, or ask about telemedicine follow-ups for established patients.
Acid Reflux & GERD FAQs
What is the difference between heartburn and GERD?
Heartburn is a symptom, a burning feeling in the chest. GERD is a chronic condition in which acid reflux happens frequently, usually two or more times per week, and may cause other symptoms or damage to the esophagus.
Can losing weight help acid reflux?
Yes. Excess weight puts pressure on the stomach and can push acid into the esophagus. Even modest weight loss can reduce reflux symptoms for many people.
What foods trigger acid reflux?
Common triggers include spicy foods, fatty or fried foods, citrus, tomatoes, chocolate, peppermint, caffeine, carbonated drinks, and alcohol. Triggers vary by person.
Is it safe to take antacids every day?
Occasional use is generally fine, but if you need antacids or acid reducers regularly, you should see your provider to find the underlying cause and the safest long-term treatment.
When should I worry about heartburn?
See your provider if heartburn occurs more than twice a week, does not improve with medication, or comes with difficulty swallowing, weight loss, vomiting, or black stools. Seek emergency care for severe chest pain.
Can GERD cause a chronic cough?
Yes. Acid reaching the throat can cause chronic cough, hoarseness, and throat clearing, even without classic heartburn.
Get Relief From Heartburn and Reflux
Don’t let reflux keep you up at night. Schedule an appointment with Trudell Doctor, M.D. & Associates in Boynton Beach, FL by calling (561) 807-7780 or requesting an appointment online.