Acid reflux is a common problem that affects millions across the U.S.—and many right here in Houston. From The Woodlands to Sugar Land, people deal with burning chest pain, sour taste, and bloating. At Gastrodoxs, we believe in clear answers and simple steps.
In this post, we’ll explain what causes acid reflux, what helps it go away, and how to get relief. You’ll also hear from Dr. Bharat Pothuri, a leading Houston gastroenterologist, and find answers to your top reflux questions.
Acid reflux happens when stomach acid flows up into the esophagus—the tube that carries food from your mouth to your stomach. This can cause burning in the chest, throat irritation, and a sour taste.
If it happens more than twice a week, it’s called GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease).
“At Gastrodoxs, many Houston patients feel better with small diet and lifestyle changes,” says Dr. Bharat Pothuri. “Understanding the cause is the first step.”
Dr. Pothuri adds, “Many patients have low acid, not too much. Supplements can help once diagnosed.”
| Cause | How It Triggers | Easy Fixes | See a Doctor If |
| Unhealthy Diet | Relaxes LES, high acid | Smaller meals, avoid spicy/fatty foods | Heartburn continues |
| Excess Weight | Pressure on the stomach | Weight loss, more movement | Weight loss is hard |
| Hiatal Hernia | Weakens LES | Small meals, elevate bed | Trouble swallowing |
| Smoking & Alcohol | Weakens LES, boosts acid | Quit or cut back | Voice changes or cough |
| Medications/Deficiency | Irritates stomach, weak LES | Review meds, test for low acid | OTC meds don’t help |
An endoscopy is a test where a camera checks your esophagus and stomach. It doesn’t cause long-term reflux. Some people feel a sore throat or bloating afterward, but that goes away quickly.
“Endoscopy doesn’t cause reflux,” says Dr. Pothuri. “If you feel worse, we may need to explore deeper causes.”
“Even in Houston’s humid weather, hydration and lighter meals can ease symptoms,” notes Dr. Pothuri.
If home remedies don’t help, Gastrodoxs offers testing and treatment across Houston—including Memorial, Katy, and River Oaks.
Virtual visits are also available for patients in Cypress, Baytown, and Pearland.
Call 911 or go to the ER if you have:
These may be signs of a more serious issue.
Acid reflux can affect your sleep, meals, and mood—but it doesn’t have to.
With the right guidance, relief is possible. At Gastrodoxs, our Houston team helps you find what’s triggering your reflux and how to stop it.
Dr. Bharat Pothuri is a Board-Certified Gastroenterologist and Hepatologist. With extensive experience in digestive health, he specializes in advanced endoscopic procedures, chronic GI disorder management, and preventive care. Dr. Pothuri is dedicated to providing expert, patient-focused insights to help improve gut health and overall well-being.
Fatty meals, overeating, extra weight, hernia, and certain meds.
No. It may irritate the throat briefly but does not cause reflux.
Low zinc or B vitamins can affect stomach acid levels.
Eat smaller meals, avoid triggers, elevate your bed, and try antacids or PPIs.
Gastrodoxs offers full testing, treatment, and diet support.
Don’t lie down right after eating. Use a wedge pillow to keep acid down.
Yes. Stress increases acid and delays digestion. Mind-body practices can help.
Yes. Try ginger tea, chewing gum, and aloe vera juice made for reflux.
If reflux happens more than twice a week or causes weight loss, call us.
Yes. Coffee can relax the LES and increase acid. Try herbal tea or low-acid blends.
