Category Archives: GERD
The Difference Between TIF and Traditional Surgical Fundoplication
March 23, 2021
Before we get into a full comparison between TIF and traditional fundoplication, it is worth noting that fundoplication surgery has been exceptionally effective in the treatment of severe or uncontrolled GERD that has not responded to other lifestyle and medication interventions. The fundoplication has been the gold standard in reflux treatment for decades and continues to be used widely across the country and around the world. Millions of people have benefited from the immediate relief that fundoplication offers.
However, even the best procedures can be improved and the Transoral Incisionless Fundoplication or TIF is, in our opinion, an effective and less invasive option that gives many of the benefits of a traditional fundoplication without many of the risks including difficulty swallowing, gas bloat, difficulty eating and the possibility of an incisional hernia. Continue reading
The Relationship Between the Gastric Sleeve and Acid Reflux
January 26, 2021
It is estimated that 20 to 30 million people in the United States suffer from chronic acid reflux also known as GERD or gastroesophageal reflux disease. It’s a shocking number that has led to compromised quality of life, long term PPI (Proton Pump Inhibitor) therapy, and a rise in esophageal cancer. For some, bariatric surgery may be the answer to losing weight and eliminating many of the effects of GERD. However, some bariatric procedures, including the gastric sleeve, may, paradoxically, cause or worsen existing acid reflux issues.
The Zantac Recall and What You Can Do About GERD
April 20, 2020
Zantac (generic name ranitidine) is a common antacid which has been in use for years. It belongs to the same class at Pepcid, Tagamet, and Axid. It is a different class of drug as Prilosec, Protonix, Dexilent, and Nexium. Zantac has IV and oral forms. It has been used for the treatment of GERD/heartburn, ulcers, gastritis.
The Food and Drug Administration recently revealed that Zantac contains low levels of a cancer-causing contaminant known as N-Nitrosodimethylamine (NDMA). NDMA was previously identified in a blood pressure drug, leading to recalls. NDMA is associated with increased risk of cancers of the liver, stomach, bladder, kidney, and other organs. The risk is likely higher with prolonged exposure to NDMA. The agency determined that the impurity in some ranitidine products increases over time and when stored at higher than room temperatures.
Does Obesity Cause Other Diseases?
March 12, 2020
It is no secret that obesity has been linked to multiple health conditions, ranging from minor to deadly. Human bodies are extremely complex systems, with near unlimited factors we can’t control. Connections have been found between obesity and an increased occurrence of: coronary heart disease, stroke, dementia, breast cancer, endometrial cancer, colon cancer, kidney cancer, gallbladder cancer, liver cancer, sleep apnea, hypertension, high cholesterol, type 2 diabetes, gallbladder disease, osteoarthritis, breathing problems, clinical depression, anxiety, chronic pain, and functional difficulty.
What Is Barrett’s Esophagus and Why Does it Matter?
February 18, 2020
Barrett’s esophagus is a precancerous condition of the esophagus (the food tube which connects the mouth and stomach). Barrett’s is almost always seen with long-standing reflux or heartburn. Years of stomach acid in the esophagus irritate the lining and eventually transform the lining. Barrett’s can generally be seen if you have a scope down the mouth. It shows up as a slightly darker area of the lower esophagus.
Can GERD Cause Nausea and Dizziness?
October 25, 2019
Acid reflux is so common that you would likely have a hard time finding someone who has never experienced heartburn. GERD, or gastroesophageal reflux disease, is when heartburn becomes a chronic condition. Some patients associate their GERD with nausea. Something that may seem to make less sense, is dizziness from reflux. While it is not a commonly recognized symptom, it can be related to your GERD.
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