Jackson Hospital | Partners | Summer 2019

6 Jackson Hospital COMMUNITY Acid reflux, also known as gastro- esophageal reflux disease (GERD), affects over 60 million Americans at least once a month and as many as 15 million every single day. While many people put up with this condition or treat it with over-the-counter medications, acid reflux can be easily treated by a gastroenterologist. At Jackson Hospital and Clinic, our team of gastroenterologists uses the latest technology to help diagnose and treat acid reflux so patients can get back to normal. What is acid reflux (GERD)? GERD occurs when acid from the stomach backs up into the esophagus, creating a burning sensation in the chest, neck or throat. Someone with GERD may also experience a bitter taste in their mouth from the acid in the back of their throat. When the esophagus comes in contact with too much stomach acid for a long period of time, that acid creates the burning sensation and can actually injure the esophageal lining in the throat. If these symptoms are persistent or do not get better within two weeks of taking over-the-counter medications, it may be time to see a gastroenterologist. COOL RELIEF Jackson Hospital has the latest technology to diagnose and treat acid reflux What tests can diagnose it? While many experience mild acid reflux or heartburn on occasion, frequent acid reflux can lead to other severe health problems. A gastroenterologist will begin by assessing the symptoms and determin- ing whether the symptoms are caused by acid reflux. There are several tests often used at The Jackson Clinic to confirm a diagnosis and create an effective treat- ment plan. Endoscopy. This test involves a small, flexible tube inserted through the mouth and usually has a light or camera attached to look for abnormalities in the esopha- gus, stomach and proximal small bowel. The camera transmits images to a screen, where a gastroenterologist can look for abnormalities. Esophageal pH test. Our gastroenterol- ogy team can now also test pH levels in the esophagus by using the Bravo esopha- geal pH test, which involves placing a capsule to the esophageal wall with an endoscope. The Bravo capsule sends data to a small receiver worn on the patient’s belt. The capsule is then passed through the digestive system and exits the body. Esophageal Manometry. During esoph- ageal manometry, a thin catheter contain- ing sensors is passed through the nose, down the esophagus and into the stomach. Sensors in the manometry catheter track fluid and movement down the esophagus. This test will easily show if a patient is experiencing reflux, trouble swallowing or even a hiatal hernia. The results can be instantly displayed on a computer. GASTROENTEROLOGY for heartburn Healthy stomach Stomach with GERD