If you suffer from heartburn twice a week or more, you may have acid reflux disease, also known as Gastroesophegeal Reflux Disease (GERD). And, you’re not alone. Approximately 30 percent of the American population experience GERD symptoms at least twice weekly. GERD is a condition in which the esophagus cannot close properly after food passes to the stomach, and as a result, stomach contents and fluids return to the esophagus. Common symptoms include heartburn, regurgitation, chronic cough, sore throat and chest pain.
Salt Lake Regional Medical Center now offers much-needed relief for GERD sufferers. At the Heartburn Care Center at Salt Lake Regional, patients benefit from effective diagnoses and comprehensive treatments by dedicated, specially-trained health care professionals. Using the latest diagnostics, therapies and medical technologies, the Heartburn Care Center takes a multi-disciplinary approach to the diagnosis and treatment of GERD. “At the Center, we work closely with patients and their primary care physicians to completely evaluate GERD symptoms and deliver advanced, individualized treatments,” said Daniel R. Cottam, M.D., general surgeon on the medical staff at Salt Lake Regional. “Whether patients require medication for mild cases, or minimally invasive or incisionless surgical procedures for chronic conditions, the Center applies proven disease management processes that streamline treatment to deliver heartburn relief faster.”
How Can The Heartburn Care Center Help You? We recognize the need for organized and effective services for the treatment of chronic heartburn. Our care center provides access to comprehensive treatment by utilizing a system that focuses on patient education and participation in treatment decisions.
If you suffer from GERD symptoms or have been taking medications for GERD, a thorough diagnostic evaluation is recommended and is available through the Heartburn Care Center at Salt Lake Regional Medical Center.
Utilizing our state-of-the-art diagnostics, we accurately determine if GERD is the cause of your problems and assess your risk for the development of GERDinduced esophageal cancer. Treatment options can then be reviewed based on the patient’s individual situation and needs.
The Heartburn Care Center utilizes a team approach composed of experienced physicians. The nurse coordinator will help you through your experience by conveniently providing information and support. We offer coordinated, efficient care in a patient-centered atmosphere.
What is GERD? Approximately 20-40 percent of Americans suffer from Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD). GERD is a common digestive disorder that can progress in severity over time. The three most common symptoms are heartburn, chest pain and regurgitation.
Less typically, GERD can cause hoarseness, sore throat, worsening asthma and cough. It is associated with sleep disturbance and decreased work productivity. For some, symptoms are relatively mild. Others suffer severely on a daily basis with significant lifestyle altering problems.
In addition, GERD may cause esophageal cancer. At the Heartburn Care Center, esophageal cancer risk assessment is part of the comprehensive diagnostic evaluation. The Heartburn Care Center at Salt Lake Regional Medical Center was developed to address all aspects of the diagnosis and treatment of this disease.
Three Types of Heartburn. Could this be you?
Occasional—The infrequent sufferer
Causes:
Trigger foods such as alcoholic or carbonated beverages, caffeine, onions, garlic, tomatoes
or tomato-based foods, as well as foods that are spicy or high in fat. Other trigger foods include peppermint, chocolate and citrus fruits.
Eating large meals or late-night eating
Exercise
Stress
Obesity
Smoking
Signs and symptoms:
Burning feeling in the chest that occurs after eating
Chest pain (can extend to the neck and jaw)
Hot, sour, or acidic taste at the back of throat
Sensation of food “sticking” in the middle of chest or throat
Chronic—Day-to-day without relief
Signs and Symptoms:
Sore throat or pain deep in the throat
Asthma-like symptoms
Cough
Cannot seem to find relief, no matter what is done
Life-threatening - Complications resulting from lingering problems
When to see a doctor:
Difficulty swallowing or pain when swallowing
Vomiting
Severe hoarseness or wheezing
Discomfort interfering with daily activities
For more information or to schedule an appointment, call 866-431-WELL (9355).
