Acid Reflux

What is Acid Reflux?

Acid reflux (also called GERD or heartburn) happens when stomach acid flows back into the esophagus, causing a burning feeling in your chest or throat. Physicians classify cases using ICD-10 codes K21.0 (GERD with esophagitis) or K21.9 (GERD without esophagitis).

Common Symptoms

Symptoms of acid reflux can vary but often include:

• Heartburn after meals or when lying down
• A sour or bitter taste in the mouth
• Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia)
• Chronic cough or hoarseness
• The sensation of food stuck in the throat

Causes

Several factors can trigger or worsen acid reflux:

• Weak lower esophageal sphincter (LES)
• Obesity or pregnancy
• Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption
• Certain foods and beverages (e.g., spicy dishes, citrus fruits, chocolate, coffee)
• Certain medications such as ibuprofen

Treatment Options for Acid Reflux in Houston

Treatment includes lifestyle changes and medical care:

• Lifestyle changes: Lose excess weight, elevate the head of your bed, avoid late-night meals, quit smoking and limit alcohol.
• Dietary advice: Steer clear of trigger foods (spicy dishes, citrus, chocolate, coffee, high-fat or fried items), eat small frequent meals, and stay upright after eating.
• Over-the-counter medications: Antacids (Tums, Maalox) to neutralize acid and H2 blockers (famotidine, ranitidine) to reduce acid production.
• Prescription medications: Proton pump inhibitors (omeprazole, esomeprazole, lansoprazole) for stronger, longer-lasting acid suppression and esophageal healing.
• Diagnostic tests: 24-hour pH monitoring to quantify reflux episodes and upper endoscopy to assess esophageal inflammation or damage.
• Advanced and surgical therapies: For severe or refractory GERD, consider procedures such as Nissen fundoplication or LINX magnetic sphincter augmentation.