When stomach acid irritates the lining of the esophagus, it can cause discomfort. This burning sensation in the lower chest is referred to as heartburn, and most people have experienced heartburn at least occasionally. When heartburn becomes chronic, you may have a more serious stomach or esophagus problem. Danny Shouhed, M.D. is a board certified general surgeon who offers advanced treatment for heartburn and GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease) at our clinic in Los Angeles.
There are many different factors that can contribute to both heartburn and GERD. Both are often caused by a weakened or dysfunctional LES muscle, the sphincter between the stomach and esophagus. This can occur from routine consumption of coffee, soda, alcohol, chocolate, fried/fatty foods and peppermint, which can relax the LES. Smoking cigarettes can also relax the LES. However, the most common risk factor for chronic heartburn and GERD is obesity.
Chronic heartburn can occur without GERD, but GERD rarely occurs without heartburn. It is one of the main symptoms of GERD, accompanied by other issues. These can include wheezing/asthma, regurgitation, hoarse/sore throat, nocturnal choking, excessive gas and difficulty swallowing.
There are many different factors that can contribute to both heartburn and GERD. Both are often caused by a weakened or dysfunctional LES muscle, the sphincter between the stomach and esophagus. This can occur from routine consumption of coffee, soda, alcohol, chocolate, fried/fatty foods and peppermint, which can relax the LES. Smoking cigarettes can also relax the LES. However, the most common risk factor for chronic heartburn and GERD is obesity.
Chronic heartburn can occur without GERD, but GERD rarely occurs without heartburn. It is one of the main symptoms of GERD, accompanied by other issues. These can include wheezing/asthma, regurgitation, hoarse/sore throat, nocturnal choking, excessive gas and difficulty swallowing.
Dr. Shouhed is a board-certified general surgeon who specializes in gastrointestinal disorders. His expertise in treating complex stomach and esophagus disorders ensures his patients receive an accurate diagnosis and the most advanced treatment for their condition.
If you have symptoms of esophagus dysmotility, contact us at our office in Los Angeles to schedule an exam and consultation with Dr. Shouhed. We offer an accurate diagnosis and esophagus dysmotility treatment to provide relief from this swallowing disorder.
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