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Acid Reflux 101 ,
woman in a white blouse is sitting on the couch and feels a strong abdominal pain

Acid reflux, also known as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), is a condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It is a common digestive disorder when stomach acid flows back into the esophagus. This can cause a range of uncomfortable symptoms, including heartburn, regurgitation, and difficulty swallowing.

What Causes Acid Reflux?

Several factors can contribute to the development of acid reflux. One of the most common causes is a weakened lower esophageal sphincter (LES). The LES is a muscle that separates the esophagus from the stomach, and when it is weakened, stomach acid can flow back up into the esophagus.

Other factors contributing to acid reflux include obesity, pregnancy, hiatal hernia and certain medications. Obesity can put pressure on the stomach, which can cause acid to flow back into the esophagus. Pregnancy can also put pressure on the stomach, and hormonal changes during pregnancy can relax the LES, making it easier for acid to flow back up.

Hiatal hernia is when part of the stomach protrudes through the diaphragm and into the chest cavity. This can weaken the LES and increase the risk of acid reflux. Certain medications, such as aspirin, ibuprofen and blood pressure medications, can also increase the risk of acid reflux.

In addition to these factors, certain foods and drinks can trigger acid reflux. These include:

  • Spicy foods
  • Citrus fruits
  • Tomatoes
  • Chocolate
  • Caffeine
  • Alcohol.

Eating large meals or lying down immediately after eating can also increase the risk of acid reflux.

How Can I Prevent Acid Reflux?

If you are experiencing symptoms of acid reflux, there are several lifestyle changes that you can make to help manage the condition. These include eating smaller, more frequent meals, avoiding trigger foods and drinks, maintaining a healthy weight and avoiding lying down immediately after eating.

In some cases, medication may be necessary to manage acid reflux. This may include antacids, proton pump inhibitors or H2 blockers.

Treatment for Acid Reflux

If you suffer from acid reflux, there are options to treat this common digestive disorder. David P. Yamini, MD, is an experienced gastroenterologist in California who can diagnose and treat acid reflux to give you relief and a better quality of life. He typically recommends some lifestyle changes and medications to combat the overproduction of acid. Some underlying conditions can cause acid reflux; treating them can make your reflux subside or completely stop.

Contact Dr. Yamini today to learn more or schedule a consultation.

Posted on behalf of David P. Yamini, MD

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Our Patient Reviews

David P. Yamini, MD

4.9 / 5.0

Based on 58 reviews

Nicole R.

Scheduling was extremely easy with Dr. Yamini's staff, I scheduled my Tuesday appointment on Monday afternoon. The staff and Dr. Yamini were courteous and straightforward - even with new patient paperwork I was out the door within an hour!

Bill C.

Dr. Yamini definitely is a great doctor who is very thorough and detail oriented with his diagnosis. He is very passionate about what he does and was able to answer any question or concern. He took his time before my appointment to look through all the documentation to know exactly what was going on. He definitely was able to put me at ease even though I was very worried. I am very satisfied with his services. Thanks!

Mario O.

He was very gentle about my situation yet did not fail to emphasize about the seriousness that could arise from gastrointestinal problems. Few and far between are as professional and caring as Dr. Yamini and his staff. I was 20 minutes late on Friday evening & they still had me in a room in 5 minutes as a new patient.

Lisa P.

I can’t say enough great things about my first impression of this doctor and his amazing staff! They got me right in and set me up for everything needed. I’ve been looking for the right GI doctor for years having had a very negative experience with another doctor years ago. Dr. Yamini is not only professional, knowledgeable, respectful, and experienced... this guy is “cool” and nice too! His front desk person, Toni was amazing! She was kind, bright, efficient, patient, and positive! ??

Kendall S.

Makes talking about uncomfortable subjects a breeze. Competent and honest: doesn't sell vitamin cleanses and his own probiotics or anything like that. Makes sure your symptoms aren't half-fixed but fully fixed. Gets to the heart of the issue quickly. Good listener. Very sweet receptionist. I hate receiving many phone calls, and she's persistent about making sure you set up an appointment; it was stressing me out. I found the her much easier to connect with once she gave me her cell and said to text.

Babak E.

Thank you Dr. Yamini and Tony. When it comes to patient care and professionalism, I have never received this much care and attention from a physician and the staff. I was able to talk to Dr. Yamini for good period of time allowing me to ask all my questions. Tony you are so cute thank you for scheduling me in last minute.

Kyle K.

I highly recommend Dr. Yamini. He's very personable and actually listens to your issues and concerns, then recommends a reasonable course of action. He was able to properly diagnose my symptoms and get me healthy again. Also his admin Toni is great too, she will help select a facility and verify that your insurance will fully cover. She's really nice and trustworthy as well!

Eric W.

Thorough doctor who cares about his patients, and very meticulous about the details of your ailment. Clearly very knowledgeable and skilled. No wait time for appointments, and the nurse (Toni) is very friendly and follows up appropriately. One of the best doctor experiences I've had and I'd recommend it to anyone.

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