The Our Lady of the Lake Acid Reflux Center within the Our Lady of the Lake Surgeons Group of Baton Rouge specializes in treating acid reflux and gastroesophageal reflux disease, or GERD, with the most innovative techniques and skilled surgeons.
Our surgeons are leaders in the region for advanced robotic surgery, providing a full scope of comprehensive services for acid reflux and GERD patients. Additionally, our surgeons teach advanced techniques to other surgeons locally, regionally and nationally.
The specialized care provided at our Acid Reflux Center makes Our Lady of the Lake a trusted and respected destination for patients throughout Louisiana and the region.
Want to discuss treatment options? Request a consultation today.
Our team is among the leading surgeons in the region for robotic, laparoscopic, minimally invasive and incision-less surgery, providing a full scope of comprehensive services to acid reflux and GERD patients.
The specialized care provided at our Acid Reflux Center makes Our Lady of the Lake a trusted and respected destination for patients throughout Louisiana.
Want to discuss treatment options? Request a consultation today.
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a chronic digestive disease in which acid and bile flow back from the stomach into the esophagus, creating pain and often causing damage to the lining of the esophagus. GERD usually has a life-long negative impact on an individual’s quality of life.
While typically used interchangeably, there is a difference between these two conditions. Acid reflux refers simply to the period in which stomach acid travels up the esophagus and causes heartburn, coughing, or other symptoms. On the other hand, GERD is a chronic condition that means someone experiences acid reflux at least two times a week or has severe symptoms, including difficulty swallowing, vomiting, and more.
The stomach and the esophagus are separated by the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), which allows food to travel into the stomach and should keep acid from traveling upward. However, pressure on the stomach, certain lifestyle choices, or a weak LES can result in acid refluxing up the esophagus, causing heartburn and other symptoms.
Pressure on the stomach can be caused by:
Lifestyle choices that can cause an increase in stomach acid include:
The best and most accurate way to determine if you have GERD is to keep a journal of the symptoms you experience, as well as their frequency and severity, and share it with your doctor. Symptoms to watch out for include:
In addition to producing a wide range of unpleasant symptoms, untreated GERD can also lead to potentially serious complications, including:
Contact the Surgeons Group of Baton Rouge to discuss your surgical treatment options for GERD.