GERD After Gastric Sleeve? We Can Help!
Congratulations on your successful gastric sleeve surgery and your commitment to a healthier lifestyle! At Malladi Bariatrics & Advanced Surgery, we’re thrilled to be a part of your weight loss journey. While the gastric sleeve is a highly effective procedure, some patients may experience GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease) afterward. GERD can be uncomfortable, but it’s a manageable condition. We’re here to provide you with the information and support you need to address GERD and continue on your path to improved health.
Understanding GERD
GERD occurs when stomach acid flows back up into the esophagus, causing symptoms like heartburn, regurgitation, and chest pain. This happens when the valve between your esophagus and stomach, the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), doesn’t close properly.
Why GERD Can Occur After Gastric Sleeve
The gastric sleeve procedure, while successful for weight loss, can sometimes increase the risk of GERD. This is often due to increased pressure within the stomach, changes in the anatomy of the digestive system, and delayed stomach emptying. These factors can all contribute to a weaker LES and allow stomach acid to escape into the esophagus.
Recognizing the Signs of GERD
It’s important to be aware of the signs of GERD so you can seek timely treatment. Common symptoms include heartburn (a burning sensation in your chest or throat), regurgitation (a sour or bitter taste in your mouth), chest pain, difficulty swallowing, and a chronic cough or hoarseness. If you experience any of these symptoms after your gastric sleeve, please don’t hesitate to contact us.
Evaluating and Diagnosing GERD
At Malladi Bariatrics, we take a comprehensive approach to evaluating GERD after gastric sleeve. We’ll review your medical history, conduct a physical examination, and may recommend tests like an endoscopy or esophageal pH monitoring. These tools help us understand the severity of your GERD and determine the most effective treatment strategy.
Treatment Options for GERD After Gastric Sleeve
We offer a variety of treatment options to address GERD after gastric sleeve. Lifestyle modifications are often the first line of defense. These include simple changes to your diet and habits that can make a big difference in managing your symptoms.
Dietary adjustments can be very helpful. This might involve avoiding trigger foods that are known to worsen GERD, such as:
- Fatty foods: Fried foods, fatty meats, and creamy sauces
- Spicy foods: Chili peppers, hot sauce, and other spicy ingredients
- Acidic foods: Tomatoes, citrus fruits, and vinegar-based dressings
- Caffeine: Coffee, tea, and soda
- Alcohol
- Chocolate
- Peppermint
In addition to avoiding trigger foods, eating smaller, more frequent meals can help reduce pressure on the LES. It’s also helpful to avoid eating close to bedtime, as lying down can make reflux worse.
Medications can also play a role in managing GERD. Over-the-counter antacids can provide temporary relief from heartburn, while prescription medications like proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) and H2 blockers can help reduce stomach acid production. In some cases, medications called prokinetics may be used to help improve stomach emptying.
For some patients, minimally invasive procedures like the LINX procedure may be recommended. This involves placing a small, flexible ring of magnetic titanium beads around the LES. These beads help to strengthen the LES, preventing reflux while still allowing food and liquid to pass through normally. The LINX procedure is typically performed laparoscopically, meaning it involves only small incisions, and most patients experience a quick recovery.
In other cases, converting the gastric sleeve to a gastric bypass might be the best option to address GERD. This is typically considered when other treatments haven’t been successful or when GERD is severe. The gastric bypass procedure creates a smaller stomach pouch and reroutes the digestive system, which can significantly reduce reflux.
Malladi Bariatrics: Your Partner in GERD Management
At Malladi Bariatrics & Advanced Surgery, we’re dedicated to providing comprehensive care throughout your weight loss journey. We’ll work closely with you to develop a personalized treatment plan to address your GERD symptoms and help you achieve long-term relief. Don’t let GERD hinder your progress. Contact Malladi Bariatrics & Advanced Surgery today to discuss your concerns and explore your treatment options. We’re here to support you on your path to a healthier, happier you.
