Acid reflux is typically due to unhealthy aspects of your lifestyle, such as:
● Being overweight or obese● Smoking● Drinking a lot of alcohol● Eating fatty and spicy foods● High caffeine intake
Certain medicines can increase your chances of developing acid reflux. Heartburn is also a common problem during pregnancy, particularly as the baby gets bigger and pushes your stomach upward. If you have a hiatal hernia, that can make acid reflux symptoms worse, too.

An occasional bout of acid reflux isn't too much of a problem, and you can manage the symptoms with over-the-counter antacid medication. However, if you're having heartburn frequently, you might need to take proton-pump inhibitors or histamine 2 receptor antagonists (H2RAS) to reduce the quantity of acid in your stomach.
It's also vital to address the causes of your acid reflux by losing weight, quitting unhealthy habits, and eating a healthier diet. If these measures still don't resolve your symptoms, Dr. Lin can perform surgery.

The primary surgery for acid reflux is Nissen fundoplication, which involves wrapping the stomach around the top to support the LES. If you have a hiatal hernia, Dr. Lin can surgically repair the damage to stop your stomach from protruding through your diaphragm.
If you're obese and it's significantly affecting your health, you may benefit from weight loss surgery to help you reach a more appropriate weight. Whatever procedure you need for acid reflux, Dr. Lin uses minimally invasive techniques where possible, such as robotic-assisted surgery, to optimize your results.
Although acid reflux may seem like a minor problem, it can develop into GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease) if left untreated, where chronic, recurring heartburn starts to damage your esophagus. GERD may lead to Barrett's esophagus, a condition that can trigger esophageal cancer.
If you're experiencing heartburn regularly, contact Clarence Lin, MD, to find out about your treatment options. Call his office or book an appointment online today.