Thomasville Medical Center 
Triad Heartburn Treatment Center
| Imagine life without heartburn. The Triad Heartburn Treatment Center at Thomasville Medical Center can provide a permanent solution to the discomforting effects of heartburn. |
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Common Symptoms of GERD
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Studies show that 40% of American adults suffer from occasional heartburn, also known as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), while 10% experience it daily. Thanks to recent medical breakthroughs, permanent relief for heartburn sufferers is now available at the Triad Heartburn Treatment Center. From minimally invasive surgery to non-surgical procedures, Thomasville Medical Center provides advanced treatment options as part of our ongoing efforts to improve the quality of life for everyone in our region.
Gastro Esophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)
Gastro Esophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) affects nearly 1.7 million people. Described as "hot acid like fluid coming up in the back of your throat", or chronic heartburn. Although treatment for GERD has significantly improved over the years, permanent relief is more readily available since the Triad Heartburn Treatment Center opened.
There are two forms of GERD. The most commonly described symptoms include heartburn or indigestion, acid refluxing into the esophagus from the stomach, and chest pain. Another type of GERD is called Laryngopharyngeal Reflux (LPR) which refers to the backflow of stomach acid to the level of the throat. People with LPR may never have heartburn or chest pain. The main symptoms of LPR are chronic hoarseness, throat clearing, cough, lump in the throat or difficulty swallowing.
GERD can be serious and should be treated with either medications or a procedure to control symptoms. The Triad Heartburn Treatment Center offers a complete work-up and treatment by board-certified physicians and registered nurses.
Heartburn
Heartburn is a burning feeling in the chest or non-specific chest pain caused by stomach contents. This occurs when the valve of muscle between the esophagus and the stomach relaxes and highly acid stomach contents goes back into the esophagus. Symptoms include:
- A burning feeling in the middle of the chest
- The burning feeling happens after meals or at night after lying down
- Over-the-counter antacids or acid-reducing medicines bring temporary relief
- Frequent belching after eating
- Bitter or sour taste in the back of the throat
Controlling Heartburn
Professionals at the Triad Heartburn Treatment Center recommend the following:
- Limit caffeine - containing beverages
- Avoid chocolate and peppermint/spearmint
- Stop smoking
- Increase saliva production by sucking hard candies or chewing gum
- Limit carbonated beverages and alcoholic beverages
- Eat small, low-fat meals
- Keep citrus fruits, tomatoes and other highly acidic food to a minimum
- Don't lie down for two or three hours after eating, and elevate the head of the bed six inches
- Wear loose-fitting clothes
Treatment Options
When lifestyle changes or medication do not relieve symptoms, this surgical procedure may be used.
For More Information
Please contact the Triad Heartburn Treatment Center at 1-877-272-0821. Office hours are Monday through Friday, 8am to 4:30pm.
