What Is Acid Reflux?
Acid reflux happens when stomach acid flows back up into the esophagus, the tube that carries food from your mouth to your stomach. Normally a ring of muscle at the bottom of the esophagus closes to keep acid where it belongs. When that valve is weak or relaxes at the wrong time, acid escapes upward. When reflux happens often, it is called gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).
Common Symptoms
- Heartburn: a burning feeling in the chest, often after eating or when lying down
- A sour or bitter taste from acid coming back into the throat or mouth
- Trouble swallowing, or a feeling of food stuck in the throat
- Chronic cough, hoarseness or sore throat
- Chest discomfort or bloating
Over time, untreated GERD can irritate and damage the lining of the esophagus, so ongoing symptoms are worth having checked.
Treatment Options
Many people start with lifestyle changes, such as smaller meals, avoiding trigger foods, not eating late at night and losing excess weight, along with medication to reduce stomach acid. When symptoms continue despite these steps, or when you would rather not depend on medication long term, anti-reflux surgery may be an option.
Anti-Reflux Surgery: Nissen Fundoplication
Nissen fundoplication is a minimally invasive treatment for severe GERD. The upper part of the stomach is wrapped around the lower esophagus to strengthen the valve, so acid stays in the stomach. Dr. Wadiwala performs it laparoscopically, through a few small incisions, allowing patients to resume normal eating faster and heal more comfortably.
If you also have a hiatal hernia, where part of the stomach pushes up through the diaphragm, it is often repaired during the same operation.
Acid Reflux and Weight
Extra weight puts pressure on the stomach and makes reflux more likely. For patients who are also considering weight loss surgery, Dr. Wadiwala will talk through which procedure is the best fit. Gastric bypass is often recommended for reflux-related cases.
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I see a surgeon about acid reflux?
If you have heartburn or reflux most weeks, if medication is no longer controlling it, or if you have trouble swallowing, schedule a consultation to explore your options.
Is anti-reflux surgery covered by insurance?
Many insurance plans cover anti-reflux surgery when it is medically necessary. Our team helps verify coverage before your procedure.
Will I still need reflux medication after surgery?
Many patients are able to reduce or stop their reflux medication after surgery. Dr. Wadiwala will talk through what to expect in your case.