Living with Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) can significantly impact your quality of life. This chronic digestive disorder occurs when stomach acid frequently flows back into the tube connecting your mouth and stomach (esophagus), causing irritation and inflammation. At Kaplan Sinus Relief, we understand the discomfort, pain, and complications that GERD can cause, and we’re committed to helping Houston residents find relief.
For patients with more severe symptoms or for those who don’t respond to lifestyle modifications or initial GERD treatments, we offer advanced solutions including prescription-strength medications, minimally invasive procedures, and surgical interventions when necessary.
With our specialized expertise and patient-centered approach, we’ve helped countless Houston residents overcome GERD and enjoy improved health and comfort. Schedule a consultation with Dr. Michael Kaplan today and take the first step toward a life free from the burden of GERD.
What is the main cause of GERD?
GERD occurs when the natural valve between your esophagus and stomach fails to close properly, allowing stomach acid to flow upward. This valve, known as the lower esophageal sphincter, normally functions as a one-way barrier that permits food to enter the stomach while preventing acid from traveling backward. When this barrier weakens or relaxes inappropriately, the result is the uncomfortable burning sensation associated with acid reflux.
Common contributing factors include:
- Structural issues such as a hiatal hernia, where a portion of the stomach protrudes through the diaphragm
- Excess body weight that increases pressure on the abdomen and stomach
- Dietary choices, including fatty, spicy, or acidic foods that can weaken the valve or increase acid production
- Tobacco use, which compromises valve integrity while stimulating acid production
- Alcohol consumption, which can temporarily relax the esophageal barrier
- Large meals, especially those consumed shortly before lying down
- Certain medications that may affect valve function or increase stomach acidity
Understanding the specific causes of your GERD symptoms is essential for effective treatment. At Kaplan Sinus Relief, Dr. Kaplan conducts comprehensive evaluations to identify your unique triggers and develops personalized treatment plans that address the root causes of your condition. By targeting these underlying factors rather than simply managing symptoms, we help our Houston patients achieve lasting relief and improved quality of life.
What are common GERD symptoms?
GERD manifests through a variety of uncomfortable and sometimes painful symptoms that can significantly impact daily life. The condition occurs when stomach acid repeatedly flows back into the esophagus, causing irritation to the esophageal lining and triggering characteristic symptoms.
Common GERD symptoms include:
- Heartburn, a burning sensation in the chest that typically occurs after eating and may worsen when lying down
- Regurgitation of food or sour liquid into the throat or mouth
- Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia) or feeling like food is stuck in your throat
- Chronic cough, especially at night or when lying down
- Hoarseness or sore throat, particularly in the morning
- Feeling of a lump in the throat (globus sensation)
- Chest pain, which may be confused with heart-related issues
- Disrupted sleep due to nighttime reflux
- Dental erosion caused by stomach acid reaching the mouth
- Worsening of asthma symptoms or recurrent respiratory infections
If you’re experiencing these symptoms regularly, we encourage you to schedule a consultation for proper evaluation and to discuss treatment options tailored to your specific needs and lifestyle.
GERD disease treatment
At Kaplan Sinus Relief, Dr. Kaplan’s comprehensive approach progresses from lifestyle modifications to medications and procedures when needed. We focus not only on relieving your immediate GERD symptoms and treatment needs but also on preventing long-term complications of chronic acid reflux through the following:
Lifestyle modifications
The foundation of GERD management begins with strategic lifestyle changes that can significantly reduce symptom frequency and severity. These modifications include:
- Maintaining a healthy weight
- Elevating the head of your bed
- Avoiding meals within three hours of bedtime
- Identifying and eliminating food triggers such as spicy foods, citrus, chocolate, and fatty meals
For many patients, smoking cessation and reducing alcohol consumption also lead to substantial improvement. Dr. Kaplan works with you to identify which specific changes will have the greatest impact on your individual symptoms and provides guidance on implementing these adjustments effectively.
Over-the-counter medications
For mild to moderate GERD symptoms, over-the-counter medications can provide significant relief when used appropriately:
- Antacids like Tums or Rolaids offer quick, temporary relief by neutralizing stomach acid.
- H2 blockers such as famotidine (Pepcid) reduce acid production and provide longer-lasting relief, typically working within an hour.
- Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) like omeprazole (Prilosec OTC) deliver the strongest acid reduction but take longer to begin working.
Dr. Kaplan can recommend which options are most suitable for your symptom pattern and help you understand how to use these medications safely.
Prescription medications
When over-the-counter options prove insufficient, prescription-strength medications may be necessary. These include higher-dose proton pump inhibitors, prescription H2 blockers, and prokinetics that help strengthen the lower esophageal sphincter and expedite stomach emptying.
For patients with atypical GERD symptoms affecting the throat and airway, Dr. Kaplan may prescribe specialized medication combinations that target both acid production and the resulting inflammation. Regular follow-up appointments allow us to monitor your response to medication and adjust your treatment plan as needed.
Minimally invasive procedures
For patients with persistent GERD symptoms despite medication therapy or those who prefer to avoid long-term medication use, several minimally invasive procedures offer effective alternatives. These include endoscopic techniques that strengthen the lower esophageal sphincter or create barriers to reflux.
Dr. Kaplan can determine if you’re a candidate for these innovative approaches and coordinate with gastroenterology specialists to ensure comprehensive care for complex cases.
Surgical interventions
In cases of severe GERD or when anatomical issues like hiatal hernia contribute significantly to symptoms, surgical intervention may provide the most effective long-term solution. Laparoscopic fundoplication is the most common surgical approach, involving wrapping the top portion of the stomach around the lower esophagus to reinforce the barrier against acid reflux. For appropriate candidates, this procedure often results in complete symptom resolution and elimination of medication dependence.
What is the best cure for GERD? While there’s no one-size-fits-all solution, surgical interventions often provide the most definitive results for severe cases. Dr. Kaplan collaborates with experienced surgical specialists to determine if this option is right for you and provides ongoing care throughout your treatment journey.
Experience life without reflux. Schedule with Dr. Kaplan today!
Living with GERD doesn’t have to be your reality. At Kaplan Sinus Relief, we understand how persistent acid reflux can disrupt your daily activities, interrupt your sleep, and diminish your quality of life. Our comprehensive approach to GERD symptoms and treatment addresses not just the uncomfortable symptoms you’re experiencing, but the underlying causes as well.
Dr. Kaplan’s expertise in various GERD treatments — from lifestyle modifications and medication therapy to advanced procedural interventions — ensures that each patient receives personalized care tailored to their specific needs. Our Houston practice has helped countless patients find relief from chronic reflux and prevent long-term complications that can result from untreated GERD and are here to offer you the same success story.
Schedule a consultation with Dr. Kaplan and take the first step toward a healthier, more comfortable life.