SERVICES

Heartburn and Acid Reflux at NNMG

Northern Nevada Medical Group offers innovative treatments that can reduce chronic heartburn, as well as chest or throat discomfort to help you restore your lifestyle.

For more information or to schedule a consultation, call 775-352-5384.

About Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), also known as acid reflux disease, is a common condition. GERD occurs when stomach acids or intestinal bile leak into the bottom of the esophagus, which is called gastroesophageal reflux. Reflux can irritate the esophagus and cause heartburn. Other reflux symptoms include:

  • Regurgitation, belching
  • Sore throat, hoarseness, persistent cough
  • Asthma-like symptoms
  • Chest pain or discomfort
  • Excessive throat clearing
  • Burning in the mouth or throat
  • Bloating

Prolonged acid reflux can result in chronic inflammation of the esophagus and a change in its lining, a condition known as Barrett’s esophagus, which has been linked to cancer of the esophagus.

Heartburn and Acid-Reflux Treatment Options

Medication, diet and lifestyle changes are the most common treatment options for GERD. While these treatments can alleviate symptoms, they usually do not solve the underlying condition. Even with acid-reflux medicine or heartburn medications, you may still need to restrict your diet.

Treating Acid Reflux and Heartburn Surgically

If medication, diet and lifestyle changes fail to reduce the symptoms of acid reflux and heartburn, an acid reflux operation or heartburn surgery may be required.

Transoral Incisionless Fundoplication (TIF) is an advanced surgical procedure that offers relief from acid reflux without surgical incisions. It is available with Michael Murray, MD, FACS and Jane Ohde, DO of Northern Nevada Medical Group. Talk to your doctor or take our self-assessment to determine what may be the best treatment option for you.

Transoral Incisionless Fundoplication (TIF)

TIF is a less invasive restoration of the anti-reflux barrier that does not require internal incisions or dissection. Most patients are able to return home the next day, and can return to work and most normal activities within a few days.

During the procedure, a surgeon inserts a device equipped with a small camera through the patient’s mouth and toward the stomach. The surgeon manipulates the device to make and fasten several folds of tissue to create an anti-reflux valve at the connection of the stomach and esophagus. After two years, the majority of TIF patients are able to return to eating foods that they could not previously tolerate. Additionally, many patients are able to stop taking medication.

Acid Reflux Self-Assessment

Don’t ignore your pain or discomfort. If you are experiencing excessive heartburn or heartburn symptoms, please complete our brief self-assessment below to determine if you might benefit from therapeutic intervention.

Bring the completed form to your appointment or email to [email protected].

Complete the Self-Assessment →

NNMG Can Help

If you are experiencing heartburn or acid-reflux symptoms or if you present any of the risk factors for either condition, Northern Nevada Medical Group is here to help. For more information or to schedule a consultation, call 775-352-5384.