What is acid reflux?

Frequent heartburn is often caused by gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). In people with GERD, the contents of the stomach back up into the esophagus, commonly known as acid reflux. 

Symptoms of a failed GERD procedure

Sometimes an initially successful surgery to relieve GERD symptoms can fail for a variety of reasons. A failed GERD surgery can cause serious symptoms and should be evaluated by a gastroenterologist with experience in GERD revision procedures.

  • Severe and/or recurring heartburn
  • Frequent coughing and choking
  • Pneumonia
  • Asthma
  • Voice changes
  • Recurring sinus infections

Acid reflux and GERD treatment

In many cases, symptoms of GERD can be relieved through home remedies, like diet and lifestyle changes, as well as quitting smoking, avoiding overeating, losing weight and decreasing alcohol intake. GERD is also treated with prescription medications or sometimes surgery, depending on its severity. We'll help decide which—from diet modification and medication therapy to surgery—is best for you.

Treatment plans for patients will be determined by their care team based on age, medical history, type of GERD and personal preferences. Options for GERD treatment may include:

Learn more about digestive diseases

Specialized centers

Baylor Scott & White Health's specialized centers can help pinpoint digestive disease causes and get you started on a path of optimal digestive health.

Heartburn and Acid Reflux Center​

At the Heartburn and Acid Reflux Center at Baylor Scott & White Clinic – Round Rock 302 University, we've developed a comprehensive approach for the diagnosis and treatment of acid reflux, combining highly skilled physicians and the latest technology to provide effective solutions.

Center for Esophageal Disease

The Center for Esophageal Disease at Baylor University Medical Center, part of Baylor Scott & White Health, features gastroenterologists, interventional endoscopists, laryngologists, esophageal surgeons and thoracic surgeons on the Baylor University Medical Center staff who have focused expertise in diagnosing and treating disorders of the esophagus, including symptoms of acid reflux disease, Barrett’s esophagus and difficulty swallowing disorders.