According to the National Institutes of Health, some 15 million Americans experience Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) every day, making it the most common gastrointestinal-related diagnosis made by physicians.
- GERD or reflux can be caused by a weak lower esophageal sphincter (LES), the muscle which separates your esophagus from your stomach. The LES is a one-way valve that normally opens for limited amounts of time when you swallow.
- Reflux occurs when digestive juices and stomach contents flow back into the esophagus.
- The backflow of stomach contents can cause damage to the digestive system and, over time, may lead to Barrett’s esophagus or esophageal cancer.
- GERD is a progressive disorder that will not resolve or go away on its own over time.
GERD symptoms may include:
- Heartburn.
- Difficulty Swallowing.
- Regurgitation.
- Chronic Cough.

Find a Digestive Health Specialist
At Texas Health, we offer a network of digestive health specialists on the medical staff of Texas Health hospitals who can diagnose and treat your digestive issues.
Care to Move Beyond Heartburn & Reflux
Many Americans diagnosed with GERD are not fully satisfied with their current treatment options of diet and lifestyle changes and increasing doses of over-the-counter or prescription medications. Texas Health heartburn and reflux programs offer a variety of advanced diagnostic services, as well as surgical and non-surgical options to help you move beyond your symptoms of GERD to live more comfortably.
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Diagnostic Tests
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Minimally Invasive Therapies
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Outpatient Surgical Care

Take Our Acid Reflux Assessment
Our quick online assessment can help you learn about risk factors related to acid reflux and whether it’s time to discuss your symptoms with a digestive health specialist.