1.9K Reviews    |    4.7 Star Rating    |    20+ years of experience    |    72k+ Patients Treated

Acid Reflux

Experiencing persistent heartburn or acid reflux? At GastroDoxs, our expert team provides comprehensive personalized diagnostics and treatment plans to relieve discomfort and improve digestion, right here in , ensuring you receive compassionate care close to home for lasting relief.

Call Us 832-632-4070 Schedule Now Click Here Text Us 832-632-4070 Learn More Click Here
Texas Medical Board
Harris County Medical Society
American College of Gastroenterology
American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy
Memorial hermann
Houston Methodist leading Medicine
HCA Houston Healthcare
Bharat Pothuri
Symptoms

What is Acid Reflux?

Acid reflux happens when stomach acid backs up into the esophagus. This can cause a burning feeling (heartburn) or a sour taste in your mouth. Occasional reflux is common; persistent reflux may lead to gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).

Common Symptoms

Many patients report:

  • Heartburn after meals or when lying down
  • Acid taste or regurgitation
  • Trouble swallowing or feeling of a lump in the throat
  • Chronic throat clearing or hoarseness
  • Cough or asthma-like symptoms

Causes

Acid reflux may stem from:

  • Weak lower esophageal sphincter (LES)
  • Hiatal hernia or obesity
  • Certain foods (caffeine, chocolate, spicy dishes)
  • Late-night eating or lying flat
  • Silent reflux in infants without obvious spit-up
Treatment

Treatment Options for Acid Reflux in Katy

Treatment includes lifestyle modifications and medical interventions:

  • Diet tweaks: Identify trigger foods with a 7-day acid reflux diet plan, focusing on lean proteins, non-citrus fruits and cooked vegetables.
  • Meal timing: Avoid late-night eating; stick to smaller, more frequent meals and choose soothing bedtime drinks like herbal tea or warm almond milk.
  • Sleep adjustments: Elevate the head of your bed by 6-8 inches or use a wedge pillow to reduce nighttime reflux events.
  • Over-the-counter remedies: Take antacids, H₂ blockers or low-dose PPIs for immediate, short-term symptom relief.
  • Prescription medications: Your gastroenterologist may prescribe higher-strength H₂ blockers or PPIs for ongoing acid suppression.
  • Endoscopic procedures: Minimally invasive options-such as fundoplication or radiofrequency treatments-are available for severe or refractory reflux.
  • Specialist monitoring: Regular follow-ups, pH testing and endoscopy allow your Acid Reflux specialist in Katy to track progress and adjust therapy.

Why Choose GastroDoxs for Acid Reflux?

At GastroDoxs in Katy, TX, our board-certified gastroenterologists specialize in diagnosing and managing acid reflux with a patient-centered approach. We combine the latest medical advances-like endoscopic therapies and individualized medication plans-with practical lifestyle guidance to relieve your symptoms and prevent complications. Whether you need tailored dietary coaching, sleep-position strategies, or ongoing monitoring, our team is committed to your comfort, health, and long-term well-being.

Ready to leave heartburn behind? Book your appointment today and take the first step toward lasting relief.

45K

Patients Treated

We've successfully treated more than 45K patients, helping individuals improve their digestive health and overall well-being through expert, personalized care.

20Y

Years of Experience

With over 20 years of experience, GastroDoxs has been a trusted provider of gastroenterology care, focusing on delivering the best outcomes for patients

Bharat Pothuri

About the Author

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.

Frequently Asked Questions

What foods should I include in an acid reflux diet plan?

Include lean proteins (chicken, turkey, fish), non-citrus fruits (bananas, melons), whole grains (oatmeal, brown rice), and cooked vegetables. Avoid trigger foods like citrus, tomatoes, spicy dishes, chocolate, caffeine, and high-fat items.

Is acid reflux throwing up a normal sign?

Mild regurgitation-where small amounts of stomach acid or food come back up-is common. However, frequent or forceful vomiting warrants medical evaluation to rule out more serious issues.

Can acid reflux cause coughing at night?

Yes. When stomach acid backs up into the esophagus and reaches the throat, it can irritate airway tissues, triggering a chronic cough or asthma-like symptoms, especially when lying down.

What is silent acid reflux in a newborn?

Silent reflux occurs without obvious spit-up. Babies may arch their backs, fuss during or after feedings, exhibit poor weight gain, refuse feedings, or clear their throats frequently without vomiting.

Will a wedge pillow for acid reflux really help?

Using a wedge pillow elevates the upper body by 30-45 degrees, which helps gravity keep stomach acid in place, reducing nighttime reflux episodes and improving sleep quality.

What to drink for acid reflux at night?

Choose soothing, low-acid options such as herbal teas (chamomile or ginger), warm almond milk, or a glass of water with a teaspoon of baking soda to neutralize stomach acid before bedtime.

Are there free 7-day acid reflux diet PDF guides?

Yes. GastroDoxs offers a complimentary 7-day acid reflux diet PDF guide that outlines daily meal plans and safe recipes. Contact our office to receive your free copy when you book an appointment.

How are acid reflux and a cough linked?

Acid that splashes up into the esophagus and throat can irritate the vocal cords and airway lining, triggering a reflex cough. Managing reflux often reduces chronic coughing.

How do I safely elevate head of bed for acid reflux?

Place 4-6-inch blocks under the bedposts at the head of the bed, or use a foam wedge mattress riser. Avoid just stacking pillows, as this can bend the neck and worsen symptoms.

What acid reflux medicine over the counter works best?

Short-term relief is often achieved with antacids (e.g., Tums), H2 blockers (e.g., Pepcid AC), or low-dose proton pump inhibitors (e.g., Prilosec OTC). Consult your specialist for long-term management.

Related Blogs
Abdominal Pain

Healthy Habits That Protect Your Gut

Read More
Abdominal Pain

5 Habits That Make Acid Reflux Worse

Read More
Abdominal Pain

The Role of Stress in Acid Reflux

Read More