GERD

Up to 20% of Americans have GERD, or gastroesophageal reflux disease, which is a condition characterized by persistent heartburn. At Slim Vegas Bariatrics & General Surgery in Las Vegas, Nevada, bariatric surgeon Jon Williams, MD, provides high-quality care for GERD. With a minimally invasive procedure, Dr. Williams can prevent stomach acid from flowing back into your esophagus, reducing symptoms and improving your quality of life. Call Slim Vegas to request a GERD consultation today or book online

What is GERD?

GERD is an acronym for gastroesophageal reflux disease. It occurs when stomach acid flows back into the tube connecting your stomach and mouth (esophagus). 

Almost everyone gets heartburn occasionally, but if yours occurs more than two times a week, it’s important to visit a specialist.

Does GERD present symptoms?

Symptoms of GERD include:

• Difficulty swallowing
• Feeling like there’s something in your throat
• Belching up food into your mouth
• Chest pain
• Persistent heartburn

As the condition worsens, you might also experience insomnia (trouble sleeping), a persistent cough, or laryngitis (a sore throat). 

Who is at risk of GERD?

GERD affects people of all backgrounds, but several factors may increase your risk, including:

• Being overweight
• Pregnancy
• Smoking
• Eating large meals late at night
• Drinking certain beverages, like alcohol or coffee

You’re also more likely to experience GERD if you take certain medications, such as aspirin. 

How is GERD diagnosed? 

At Slim Vegas Bariatrics & General Surgery, Dr. Williams begins by taking a full medical history and completing a physical exam. He may be able to diagnose your condition with just a physical exam and a review of your symptoms.

In other cases, Dr. Williams recommends X-rays, diagnostic tests, or endoscopy to confirm your diagnosis. During endoscopy, Dr. Williams inserts a thin, flexible tube with a camera on the end through your mouth and into your esophagus and stomach. Dr. Williams looks at the video feed for signs of GERD, like inflammation or scar tissue.

How is GERD treated? 

At Slim Vegas Bariatrics & General Surgery, Dr. Williams treats GERD using a surgical approach. Surgery provides long-term relief from symptoms without needing prescription medications or regular checkups. Depending on your medical history and symptoms, Dr. Williams might recommend:

Fundoplication

During fundoplication surgery, Dr. Williams uses special tools to wrap the top of your stomach around your lower esophageal sphincter –– a flap of tissue that prevents food in your stomach from flowing back into your esophagus.

LINX Device

The LINX device uses medical-grade magnets to close your lower esophageal sphincter. The magnets are strong enough to prevent acid from flowing back into your esophagus but weak enough to allow food to pass through to your stomach.

Transoral incisionless fundoplication (TIF)

TIF is similar to traditional fundoplication. The difference is that there are no incisions involved. Dr. Williams completes the entire procedure endoscopically using special, noninvasive tools.

Call Slim Vegas Bariatrics & General Surgery to request a GERD consultation today or click the online booking feature.