If you think you’re suffering from acid reflux, GERD, or your symptoms are worsening, consider an appointment for telemedicine for acid reflux near Howard County.

Without leaving the comfort of your home, an internal medicine doctor specializing in gastroenterology can determine the best treatment plan for you.

What is Acid Reflux or GERD?

Acid reflux occurs when the lower esophageal sphincter allows acid from the stomach to flow into the esophagus. Often, this causes heartburn.

GERD, or gastroesophageal reflux disease, is different from acid reflux in that it is chronic and symptoms usually progress in severity.

What Causes Acid Reflux?

Acid reflux is caused by the sphincter at the bottom of the esophagus not closing completely, allowing stomach acid to flow up into the esophagus. This causes abdominal pain, often severe.

Risk factors for developing acid reflux include obesity, having a hiatal hernia, pregnancy, connective tissue disorders, and delayed stomach emptying.

Things that can make your acid reflux symptoms worse are:

·        Smoking

·        Eating large meals, especially late at night

·        Eating trigger foods (chocolate; fatty, spicy, or fried foods)

·        Drinking certain beverages (alcohol, tea, coffee, carbonated drinks)

·        Taking certain medications

Managing acid reflux is important because the pain it causes can impact your lifestyle. Unfortunately, this condition can also lead to complications.

What Happens During My Appointment?

Your doctor will ask you about your symptoms and how they have progressed over time during your telemedicine for acid reflux Howard County. Keeping a diary of your symptoms can be helpful.

During the telemedicine appointment for gastroenterology, you may be asked for your health history and your lifestyle, such as your activity level and whether you smoke.

Your answers will help your doctor determine whether you suffer from acid reflux or GERD. If you already have a diagnosis, your doctor can evaluate the progression of your condition.

From there, you and your doctor can work on developing a treatment plan to manage your symptoms. If you already have a plan, your doctor may consider modifying it.

Telemedicine for Acid Reflux in Howard County

Telemedicine appointments make it possible for a doctor to evaluate your acid reflux symptoms from the comfort of your home. Call (301) 262-8188 or fill out our form for a telemedicine consultation.