GERD (Acid Reflux) Specialist
SoHo Gastroenterology
Murray Orbuch, MD
Gastroenterologist located in SoHo & Financial District, New York City, NY
If you have acid reflux on a regular basis, then you may be suffering from gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Without proper treatment, the acidity may damage your esophagus and increase your risk of cancer. At SoHo Gastroenterology: Dr. Murray Orbuch, MD, with two convenient locations in SoHo and the Financial district, Manhattan, board-certified gastroenterologist Dr. Orbuch specializes in the management of acid reflux and GERD and can develop a treatment plan to reduce symptoms and risk of complications. Call your nearest New York City office or book an appointment online today to get the relief you need.
GERD (Acid Reflux) Q & A
What is acid reflux?
Acid reflux is a condition in which the acidic content of your stomach flows up into your esophagus. With acid reflux, you may taste regurgitated food in the back of your mouth or experience heartburn.
What is GERD?
GERD occurs when your acid reflux occurs frequently. You may have GERD if you experience mild acid reflux twice a week or moderate to severe acid reflux once a week.
In addition to heartburn and a bad taste in your mouth, with GERD you may also experience:
- Difficulty swallowing
- Chest pain
- Feeling like you have a lump in the back of your throat
- Chronic coughing
- Laryngitis
If you’re experiencing frequent episodes of acid reflux, you should schedule an appointment to see the team at SoHo Gastroenterology: Dr. Murray Orbuch, MD.
Over time, the acidity can lead to chronic inflammation of your esophagus and put you at risk of developing esophageal strictures (formation of scar tissue that causes your esophagus to narrow), esophageal ulcer, or a precancerous condition called Barrett’s esophagus.
Can I have acid reflux without GERD?
Yes, you can have acid reflux without GERD. It’s not unusual to experience occasional acid reflux after eating too much or a meal that’s spicy or high in fat. But if your heartburn seems to be more frequent, then it’s time so see the team for an evaluation.
What are the treatments for acid reflux and GERD?
You can easily treat your acid reflux with an over-the-counter antacid and modification to your diet, such as eating smaller meals and avoiding the foods that cause trouble.
For GERD, the team at SoHo Gastroenterology: Dr. Murray Orbuch, MD, may also suggest lifestyle modifications to help you manage your symptoms, such as:
- Eating smaller meals
- Chewing your food thoroughly
- Limiting fried and spicy foods
- Elevating your head while you sleep
- Losing weight if you’re overweight
- Smoking cessation
The team at SoHo Gastroenterology: Dr. Murray Orbuch, MD, may also recommend medication (over-the-counter or prescription) to reduce stomach acidity.
You may also benefit from a medication that helps strengthen your esophageal sphincter, which is the muscle that separates your stomach from your esophagus.
If you can’t control your GERD with medication, you may benefit from surgery to help control the reflux.
To get control of your acid reflux and GERD, contact the gastrointestinal experts at SoHo Gastroenterology: Dr. Murray Orbuch, MD, by phone or online today.
Services
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Colon Cancer Screeningmore info
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Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)more info
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Colonoscopy/Endoscopymore info
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Hepatitismore info
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Celiac Diseasemore info
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Constipationmore info
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GERD (Acid Reflux)more info
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