Food, fun … and heartburn?
We all love a good BBQ picnic or a weekend beach getaway. Along with the fun, we often look forward to indulging in our favorite foods and drinks. But for those dealing with heartburn, acid reflux, or gastroesophageal reflux disease, enjoying certain favorites can lead to uncomfortable days and sleepless nights.
In the U.S., 20% of adults experience symptoms of acid reflux, heartburn or GERD on a weekly basis. These conditions occur when the lower esophageal sphincter fails to keep stomach acid from flowing back into the esophagus.
Symptoms may include:
- Chest discomfort
- Upper abdominal burning
- Belching
- Bitter taste
- Regurgitation
- Nausea
A hiatal hernia, in which part of the stomach bulges into the chest cavity, can also contribute to GERD. While small hernias may not require treatment, larger ones can worsen symptoms and often require surgical correction. Unfortunately, many individuals go undiagnosed and untreated for months or even years, relying on over-the-counter antacids or prescription medications without addressing the underlying cause.
Planning a cookout? Review these safety tips to avoid food-borne illness.
Common causes of GERD
In addition to physiological factors, lifestyle choices and diet play a significant role in triggering acid reflux.
Common triggers include:
- Carbonated beverages
- Chocolate
- Food that is acidic, spicy or greasy
- Tea
Sound familiar? These foods are staples of a Texas picnic — think hot dogs, chicken wings, chips and salsa, jalapeno poppers, citrus salads, BBQ sauce and hamburgers. Texans love to go big when it comes to gatherings, you shouldn’t have to miss out on the fun just to avoid heartburn!
Explore helpful tips for preventing heartburn.
Managing GERD
The good news? GERD can be managed effectively. While many patients find relief with proton pump inhibitors like Nexium or Prilosec, these medications only mask symptoms rather than treating the root cause. Additionally, 30-40% of patients don’t experience complete relief from medication alone.
The Texas Center for Esophageal and Foregut Surgery within UT Medicine’s General and Gastrointestinal Surgery Clinic offers a comprehensive, multidisciplinary approach to GERD treatment.
“We are taking a multispecialty, comprehensive approach to this disease. Our team approach creates a personalized treatment plan for each patient,” shares Tripp Buckley, M.D., a board-certified general surgeon in the Texas Center for Esophageal and Foregut Surgery.
Patients who experience incomplete relief with medications and lifestyle modifications, are intolerant to drugs, don’t want to be on lifetime medications, or have advanced disease may opt to address their condition through minimally invasive surgery.
Discover how Buckley’s personal experience with GERD shapes his approach to patient care.
Treatment options
“There are multiple new procedures for GERD that actually treat the disease at its source,” explains Buckley. “These include procedural options designed to restore the normal anatomy of the lower esophageal sphincter, the valve between the esophagus and stomach.”
One such procedure, known as the LINX, is available for patients who don’t respond well to daily medications or those concerned about the long-term effects of pill therapy.
“The LINX procedure is one of the most popular surgical options,” notes Buckley. “It’s essentially an artificial valve that prevents reflux. It’s been extensively studied and is reliable, safe and effective.”
Buckley is highly experienced with the LINX procedure, having been involved in numerous research initiatives. He is considered one of the most experienced LINX surgeons in the world. He’s also actively participating in several research projects.
“Being at the forefront of research and innovation is key to improving GERD patient care,” adds Buckley. “We’re also involved in a Food and Drug Administration trial for a new GERD therapy known as EndoStim, which acts like a pacemaker for the valve. It has shown great promise in trials outside the U.S.”
Learn more about a new treatment that may offer a more efficient path to GERD relief.
When to consult a specialist
If you experience GERD symptoms more than twice a week, or if your symptoms persist or worsen while on medication, it may be time to see your doctor or a specialist. In the meantime, focus on managing your symptoms, avoiding or limiting certain foods and beverages, and taking your medications.
