Best Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease Doctors in Chennai

Types/Stages of Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)

The different types identified by specialists for gastroesophageal reflux include:

• Non-erosive reflux disease (NERD): This form of GERD is characterised by mild symptoms like heartburn, regurgitation, and chest pain.

• Erosive esophagitis (EE): This type showcases visible damage to the oesophageal lining due to acid reflux, with key signs being heartburn, difficulty swallowing, and chest pain.

• Barrett's oesophagus (BE): A severe form of GERD where chronic exposure to stomach acid changes the tissue lining the lower oesophagus, increasing the risk of oesophageal cancer.

• Silent reflux: Unlike traditional acid reflux, this version leads to acid reaching the pharynx, larynx, or voice box, causing symptoms like chronic cough, hoarseness, and asthma.

Symptoms of Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)

The common symptoms observed by doctors for GERD include:

• Acidity or heartburn

• Return of food or liquid

• Difficulty swallowing

• Painful swallowing

• Chronic cough

• Hoarse voice

• Sore throat

Tests to Diagnose Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)

The gastroesophageal reflux disease doctors at Apollo Hospitals in Chennai offer a wide range of diagnostic tests:

• Upper gastrointestinal endoscopy (EGD): This allows doctors to view the oesophageal mucosa directly.

• Ambulatory pH monitoring: This is the go-to method for diagnosing acid reflux.

• Oesophageal manometry and impedance study: These tests check for low pressure in the oesophagus and defects in muscle contractions.

• pH testing: This measures the acid levels inside the oesophagus.

Treatment or Surgery Options for Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) at Apollo Hospitals in Chennai:

Apollo Hospitals in Chennai, with their team of dedicated GERD specialists, offer a multitude of treatment options:

• Over-the-counter or prescription antacids: These neutralize stomach acid.

• Acid reducers such as H2 blockers or proton pump inhibitors: These reduce the amount of acid your stomach makes.

• Surgical treatments such as fundoplication: This involves sewing the top of the stomach around the oesophagus to prevent acid reflux

• Bariatric surgery: An option for obese individuals where weight loss can help control GERD symptoms.

• Lifestyle changes: These include quitting smoking, maintaining a healthy weight, changing eating habits, and elevating the head during sleep.