Did you know that over 20% of the US population suffers from Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)? The disease is known to cause heartburn and digestion problems. GERD affects everyone, both adults and children. However, you are likely to develop the disease if you are obese, smoking, pregnant, or overeating. Usually, the condition is treatable with over-the-counter medication and lifestyle modifications, but you might benefit from a reflux surgery Atlanta if your case is severe. Keep reading to learn more and understand how reflux surgery works.
What is Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)?
It is a digestive system condition that causes a burning sensation around your chest, among other digestive issues. You may have GERD if you suffer from frequent heartburn.
You can find relief from symptoms through medications and adopting a healthy lifestyle. However, if your symptoms persist, you may need surgery. Peachtree Surgical & Bariatrics team offers reflux surgery with minimally invasive procedures to restore your health.
When do you need reflux surgery?
Your provider recommends a noninvasive reflux surgery when your GERD cannot heal with conservative treatments. Severe cases of GERD may interfere with your daily routine, affecting your life quality. Some of the symptoms you may experience include the following;
· Sore throat
· Chest pain
· Heartburn
· Difficulty swallowing
· Lump in the throat
· Regurgitation
You may develop complications from GERD if you do not get the necessary treatments.
Why may you prefer reflux surgery for treating Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) rather than medication?
Medications for GERD, such as H2 blockers and proton pump inhibitors, work by decreasing acid production in the stomach. The drugs provide effective results; however, there may be some drawbacks.
Typically, the medications manage the condition by relieving symptoms but do not treat the cause of the problem. Hence, surgery becomes the ideal treatment for GERD.
When you choose medications, it means taking them daily all your life to prevent the symptoms from occurring. But are you ready for such a life commitment? In addition, drugs have side effects that can be pretty difficult to deal with.
Reflux surgery provides you with effective and long-lasting treatment without life commitments.
How does a reflux surgery work?
Peachtree Surgical & Bariatrics offers fundoplication, a standard form of reflux surgery with a success rate over 90%.
A hernia is another problem that may lead to GERD. Reflux surgery focuses on repairing the hiatal hernia and using the upper part of the stomach to enhance the lower esophageal sphincter. The procedure replaces the valve responsible for reflux.
The treatment is minimally invasive, allowing your provider to make tiny cuts. It enhances fewer scarring, reduces bleeding, and causes less pain, unlike the open surgery methods. Usually, the procedure allows you to return home shortly after surgery.
If you encounter heartburn frequently, you may be suffering from Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease. As we know, reflux surgery provides the best solution for the condition. The treatment is minimally invasive, leaving you with several benefits compared to open surgery. Contact Peachtree Surgical & Bariatrics today to schedule your surgery.
