As people age, they are more likely to experience acid reflux disease because their bodies tend to lose some of the natural processes that prevent acid production. Some may notice acid around their mouths following a meal, while others will experience burning in the throat. The idea of acid reflux disease sounds scary and unpleasant to most people. However, there are many ways to treat and prevent this health problem without surgery. However, you may need surgery if other treatments do not improve your symptoms. If you are considering reflux surgery, you should first consult with a specialist in reflux surgery in Atlanta to learn all there is about the treatment. Below are some typical indications that may require reflux surgery.
Heartburn
Heartburn is one of the most common symptoms of acid reflux disease. It can be uncomfortable and even painful after eating or drinking certain foods. The heartburn may feel like a burning sensation in the chest, throat, or neck. It can also cause belching, nausea, and other unpleasant symptoms that make daily life difficult. Heartburn is one of the reasons people go for reflux surgery.
Sore Throat
Acid reflux may cause the throat to feel sore, scratchy, and dry. In some cases, it can even trigger a chronic cough. If you notice any of these symptoms after eating or drinking certain foods, you could have acid reflux disease. Many people may mistake their throat problems as caused by allergies or an infection.
Regurgitation
In some cases, reflux can lead to a condition called regurgitation. With this condition, food and acid enter the back of the throat or even spill out of your mouth while sleeping or attempting to eat. This may be due to weak muscles in your esophagus that allow too much stomach acid into your throat and mouth. Regurgitation can also be caused by a hiatal hernia when part of the stomach moves through the diaphragm and into the chest cavity.
Trouble Swallowing
Swallowing can become difficult with acid reflux because stomach acids may affect the throat. The acids can make swallowing feel like your throat is on fire or even painful. It may become so difficult to swallow that people cannot eat or drink anything in some cases. You should talk with a doctor if you have any trouble swallowing food or drinks, even if it only occurs occasionally.
Chest Pain
Acid reflux can result in chest pain, often mistaken for a heart attack. It can also cause you to feel nauseous or short of breath. If you have any of these symptoms, it could be a sign that your stomach contents are moving into your windpipe and causing acid injury.
Lump in the Throat
People with acid reflux disease may notice that they feel like they have a lump in their throat. This is due to stomach contents moving into the esophagus. The swelling can cause discomfort and sometimes even make it difficult to breathe. If this occurs, you should see your doctor as soon as possible since it could signify other conditions requiring attention.
In summary, reflux surgery is a last resort for people who have trouble finding relief for GERD symptoms. You may need reflux surgery if you have chronic heartburn, sore throat, and chest pain. A lump in the throat and trouble swallowing can also signify GERD, which may need surgery.
