Heartburn and reflux
Reflux, also known as acid reflux, occurs when stomach acid travels back up the esophagus and into the mouth. Heartburn, a burning sensation in the chest, is a symptom of reflux. Treatments for reflux range from lifestyle changes to surgery.
Heartburn and Reflux Center in South Denver
Has your acid reflux become unmanageable? Our digestive health team can help.
If you can no longer manage the discomfort of heartburn with lifestyle changes and over-the-counter (OTC) medications, our hospital can help. The Heartburn and Reflux Center at Sky Ridge Medical Center offers advanced treatments to reduce symptoms of reflux and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) to bring you more comfortable days ahead.
Expert advice, available 24/7
Free health-related information is available just a phone call away. Our nurses help you understand your symptoms, treatment options and procedures. They will also help you find a provider or specialist and schedule an appointment.
Free health-related information is available just a phone call away. Our nurses help you understand your symptoms, treatment options and procedures. They will also help you find a provider or specialist and schedule an appointment.
Related specialties
Learn more about our related specialties.
Heartburn and related conditions we treat
Our gastroenterology program can treat a range of reflux symptoms and related conditions, including:
- Achalasia
- Acid reflux disease
- Barrett’s Esophagus
- GERD
- Hiatal and paraesophageal hernia
- Laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR)
- Recurrent reflux or hernia after surgery
Our heartburn and reflux care program
Our board-certified gastroenterologists and surgeons specialize in treating chronic GERD. We can help you treat GERD or heartburn with the latest diagnostics and medical treatments.
GERD diagnostics
The capsule esophageal pH test measures and records the level of acidity (pH) in one’s esophagus to determine the degree to which you have acid reflux over a 48-hour period. The device consists of a capsule about the size of a vitamin pill that attaches to the esophagus by suction and transmits information wirelessly to a pocket-sized receiver you carry with you. Knowing if and when stomach acid backs up into your esophagus can help us better treat your symptoms.
GERD treatments we offer
GERD treatment may require prescription medication, and, occasionally, surgery or other procedures.
To treat GERD, we offer:
- Biliary drainage
- Gastrointestinal bleeding scans
- Hiatal hernia repair (traditional and minimally invasive)
- Magnetic sphincter augmentation
- Paracentesis
What's the difference in acid reflux, heartburn and GERD?
Reflux, also known as acid reflux, occurs when stomach acid travels back up the esophagus and into the mouth. A symptom of acid reflux is heartburn (which can be an acidic, burning sensation in the throat or chest). Acid reflux (and heartburn) that occurs frequently and interferes with your routine is considered GERD.
Heartburn
Heartburn, a burning sensation in the chest behind your breastbone, is a symptom of acid reflux. The pain is often worse after eating, in the evening or when lying down or bending over. Occasional heartburn is common and no cause for alarm. Heartburn that is more frequent or interferes with your daily routine may be a symptom of a more serious condition requiring medical care.
When to see a doctor for acid reflux or heartburn
Make an appointment with your doctor if:
- Heartburn occurs more than twice a week
- Symptoms persist despite the use of OTC medications
- You have difficulty swallowing
- You have persistent nausea or vomiting
- You have weight loss because of poor appetite or difficulty eating
Seek immediate help if you experience severe chest pain or pressure, especially when combined with other signs and symptoms such as pain in the arm or jaw or difficulty breathing. Chest pain may be a symptom of a heart attack.
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
GERD can seriously damage your esophagus or lead to precancerous changes in the esophagus called Barrett's esophagus. Symptoms of GERD include:
- Burning pain in the chest that usually occurs after eating and may occur at night
- Pain that worsens when lying down or bending over
- Bitter or acidic taste in the mouth
- Excessive throat clearing
- Hoarseness
- Chronic cough
- Asthma
Complete our heartburn/GERD questionnaire to see if you may benefit from heartburn treatment.
New treatment for chronic heartburn
Jackie suffered from heartburn most of her life until she was offered a new treatment from our Heartburn and Reflux Center.
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Our Heartburn and reflux Locations
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