GERD, or gastroesophageal reflux disease, is uncomfortable and sometimes even painful. If you’re experiencing symptoms like heartburn, regurgitation, and difficulty swallowing, it’s important to seek medical help. Here are 8 types of doctors who can provide relief and alternative medicine treatments to help you manage your GERD symptoms.
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- 9 Effective Treatments for Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)
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Treating Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) via Traditional medicine
1. Primary Care Physician
Commonly, your primary care physician is the first doctor you see when experiencing GERD symptoms. They can help you by performing a physical exam and asking you about your symptoms to determine if you have GERD. They may also recommend lifestyle changes and over-the-counter medications to manage your symptoms. If your symptoms persist or worsen, they often refer you to more specialized care, like consult a gastroenterologist.
2. Gastroenterologist
A gastroenterologist specializes in matters of the digestive system and can help diagnose and treat GERD. They can perform tests like an endoscopy or pH monitoring to determine the severity of your condition and develop a treatment plan. They can also recommend to you lifestyle changes to make and medications to manage your symptoms.
3. Otolaryngologist
An otolaryngologist, also known as an ENT, an ear, nose, and throat doctor, can also help with GERD symptoms. This is because GERD can cause irritation and inflammation in the throat and vocal cords, leading to hoarseness and sore throat symptoms. An ENT doctor can examine your throat and vocal cords to determine if GERD is what is causing your symptoms and provide treatment options. They may also work with your gastroenterologist to develop a comprehensive treatment plan.
4. Pulmonologist
A pulmonologist is a type of doctor specializing in the respiratory system (includes the lungs and airways). While GERD primarily affects the digestive system, it can also cause respiratory symptoms like coughing and wheezing. A pulmonologist can help diagnose and treat these symptoms and any complications that may arise from GERD affecting the respiratory system. They may also work with your gastroenterologist to create a treatment plan to address your respiratory and digestive symptoms.
Final thought
If you are suffering from acid reflux, don’t suffer in silence. Several healthcare professionals can provide options and treatments for Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD). Make sure to do your research and, with the help of your doctor, choose what you feel is the best route to treat your condition.