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Advanced heartburn care at Ascension Saint Agnes

GI doctors at Ascension Saint Agnes in Baltimore deliver care for heartburn, indigestion and acid reflux regurgitation from GERD.
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REFER A PATIENT

It can be normal to have an upset stomach or heartburn every once in a while. But when your symptoms don’t go away or get worse, talk to a specialist. Doctors and care teams at Ascension Saint Agnes specialize in advanced care for GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease) or acid reflux. This is a condition that causes stomach acid to rise into your esophagus, irritating the stomach lining. Schedule an appointment if:

  • Medications are no longer providing relief
  • You experience heartburn more than twice a week
  • You have difficulty swallowing
  • You begin losing weight due to loss of appetite or difficulty eating

We understand that heartburn can be uncomfortable and even painful at times. Your care starts with a conversation about you and your symptoms. We take the time to listen to you so we can better understand your symptoms and your digestive health. Then, we create a personalized care plan that’s right for you.

If you are experiencing chest pain, especially in combination with jaw or arm pain, lightheadedness, nausea, vomiting or difficulty breathing, you might be having a heart attack. Call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room right away.

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Personalized treatment options for acid reflux

Many times, acid reflux can be managed with diet changes and medication. But when diet changes and medication no longer help control your acid reflux, we’re here to help. Doctors at Ascension Saint Agnes help you manage your symptoms and offer options such as minimally invasive treatment for heartburn and indigestion.

Minimally invasive treatment for heartburn (acid reflux) helps repair your body’s natural barrier between your stomach and your esophagus to help prevent chronic GERD, heartburn and regurgitation. This treatment option may result in less pain and a faster recovery than traditional surgery.

Surgeons at Ascension Saint Agnes deliver surgical and non-surgical care for GERD. Your doctor explains your treatment options and works with you to create a personalized care plan. Treatment options may include:

  • Stretta®

    Stretta is an endoscopic procedure that helps increase the strength and size of the valve between your stomach and esophagus. In this procedure, radiofrequency waves are sent into the tissue surrounding the valve, which causes muscle growth over time. This helps the valve close better.

    This procedure may be an option for you if:

    • You have acid reflux that does not respond to medication
    • Have a hiatal hernia less than 2 centimeters in length
    • You want to stop taking your anti-reflux medication
  • Transoral incisionless fundoplication (TIF)

    Your doctor may recommend transoral incisionless fundoplication (TIF) to treat your acid reflux. TIF is a minimally invasive procedure that helps treat acid reflux by wrapping the valve between your stomach and esophagus. During the procedure, your doctor uses a device that enters through your mouth and goes into your throat. Then, the top of the stomach is wrapped around the lower esophagus, creating a barrier that prevents acid from leaking or moving up.

  • Fundoplication

    The most common surgery to repair the valve is called a fundoplication, and can be combined with a hiatal hernia repair. A fundoplication may be an option for you if:

    • You have acid reflux that does not respond to medication
    • Have a large hiatal hernia
    • You want to stop taking your anti-reflux medication

Care for hiatal hernia

Other conditions may have symptoms that are similar to GERD. Our doctors can help diagnose and treat these conditions. One of these conditions is a hiatal hernia. Symptoms may include heartburn, regurgitation, hoarseness and pain or difficulty with swallowing food. With a hiatal hernia, the stomach is pushed into the chest; it can cause nausea, vomiting, pain after eating or make it difficult to swallow food.

When possible, hiatal hernias are treated with minimally invasive procedures. With this type of procedure, your surgeon uses smaller incisions, which may lead to less pain and a shorter recovery.

Get a second opinion from a GI specialist

Get the confidence and peace of mind that your doctor and care plan are right for you. It's easy to get a second opinion at Ascension Saint Agnes. We can review your medical records and healthcare history to answer your questions and discuss options. Talk with one of our specialists about a personalized care plan.

When you are facing a new diagnosis or experiencing chronic GI symptoms, there’s a lot to think about. We can discuss a treatment plan that’s right for you. Our team of highly experienced specialists can provide you with a second opinion based on experience and as part of a national team of doctors.

Before your appointment, check with your insurance company to find out if a second opinion is covered. We can request your medical records from your doctor on your behalf, so that they can be shared with your care team before your arrival.

SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT – 667-234-8725

Refer a patient to a specialist

Your patients can expect compassionate, personalized care from the moment our specialists connect with them. Our specialists start by listening to fully understand their needs and to develop an individualized care plan. To make a patient referral, please call 667-234-8725.

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