GERD Treatment in Johnson City, TN | John Lawson Surgical
Welcome to John Lawson Surgical, where we provide top-notch surgical services for the treatment of Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) in Johnson City, TN. We understand the impact that GERD can have on your daily life, and our experienced team is here to help you find relief and improve your overall well-being.
What is GERD?
GERD is a chronic condition that occurs when stomach acid frequently flows back into the esophagus, causing irritation and discomfort. This condition can lead to a range of symptoms, including heartburn, regurgitation, chest pain, difficulty swallowing, and coughing. If left untreated, GERD can cause long-term complications and affect your quality of life.
Causes of GERD
Several factors contribute to the development of GERD. These include:
- Hiatal hernia: A condition where a portion of your stomach protrudes into the chest cavity through the diaphragm.
- Weak lower esophageal sphincter (LES): The LES is a muscle that acts as a valve between the esophagus and stomach. When this muscle weakens, it allows stomach acid to flow back into the esophagus.
- Obesity: Excess weight can put pressure on the stomach, causing acid to reflux into the esophagus.
- Dietary factors: Consuming fatty and spicy foods, caffeine, alcohol, and carbonated beverages can trigger GERD symptoms.
- Smoking: Tobacco smoke irritates the lining of the esophagus and relaxes the LES, increasing the risk of acid reflux.
GERD Treatment Options
At John Lawson Surgical, we offer a range of treatment options to relieve GERD symptoms and improve your quality of life:
1. Lifestyle Modifications:
Our experienced team will work closely with you to identify lifestyle changes that can help manage your GERD. These may include:
- Weight loss: If you are overweight or obese, shedding excess pounds can reduce the pressure on your stomach and alleviate symptoms.
- Dietary changes: Avoiding trigger foods and adopting a GERD-friendly diet can help minimize acid reflux. We will provide you with a comprehensive list of foods to avoid and suggest healthier alternatives.
- Smoking cessation: Quitting smoking can significantly improve GERD symptoms and reduce the risk of complications.
2. Medications:
In some cases, medications may be prescribed to manage GERD symptoms. These may include:
- Antacids: Over-the-counter antacids can provide temporary relief by neutralizing stomach acid.
- H2 blockers: These medications reduce the production of stomach acid and can help alleviate symptoms.
- Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs): PPIs are powerful medications that block the production of acid in the stomach, providing long-term relief for GERD patients.
3. Surgery:
If lifestyle modifications and medications fail to provide sufficient relief, surgical intervention may be necessary. At John Lawson Surgical, our skilled surgeons specialize in advanced surgical techniques for the treatment of GERD, including:
- Fundoplication: This procedure involves wrapping the upper part of the stomach around the lower esophagus to strengthen the LES and prevent acid reflux.
- Linx Reflux Management System: A minimally invasive procedure where a magnetic ring is placed around the esophagus to prevent acid reflux while allowing food to pass through normally.
- Laparoscopic Anti-reflux Surgery: In this procedure, small incisions are made in the abdomen to access and reinforce the LES.
Contact Us for GERD Treatment in Johnson City, TN
If you are experiencing symptoms of GERD and seeking effective treatment in Johnson City, TN, look no further than John Lawson Surgical. Our dedicated team is committed to delivering personalized care and helping you achieve relief from GERD. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step towards a healthier, reflux-free life.
