Most people suffer from heartburn now and then. This uncomfortable burning sensation behind the breastbone or in the throat might result from overindulging during a celebration dinner, enjoying extra spicy salsa or gobbling a late-night snack. Occasional bouts of heartburn aren't necessarily a cause for concern. But for some sufferers, heartburn is a symptom of a serious underlying condition: gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).

What Is GERD?
Typically, chewed-up food slides down the esophagus and through a gate-like muscle into the stomach, where juices begin to digest the food. Sometimes, however, the muscle is weak or opens at the wrong time, allowing stomach acid to reflux, or flow back, into the esophagus. Over time, GERD can cause serious complications. The esophagus can become inflamed, leading to bleeding or ulcers. Damaged or scarred esophageal tissue may make swallowing difficult. Some conditions, such as asthma, chronic cough and pulmonary fibrosis may be aggravated or even caused by GERD. And, cells in the esophageal lining may, in time, become precancerous.

• Excessive clearing of the throat.
• Wheezing and coughing.
• Difficulty or pain when swallowing.
• Burping or belching.
• Burning in the mouth or pain in the chest.
• Vomiting, coughing and other respiratory problems (in infants and children).

Help Is Available for Digestive Disorders
As unpleasant as you may think diagnosis and treatment would be for the digestive tract disorder you may be suffering, the consequences for putting it off can be
much worse.

At San Jacinto Methodist Hospital, we have an entire department dedicated only to the diagnosis and treatment of the digestive tract. The Center is designed around the patient, and our nursing staff consists of registered nurses with extensive experience. We strive to make you comfortable during your visit, which usually takes about one to two hours. And, we welcome the support of your family in the recovery areas immediately after your procedure. Our advanced technology allows us the capability to diagnose and provide treatment if necessary.

Over-the-counter medications can, at times, mask a problem, and fear or pride serve as excuses to postpone a visit when your health is at stake. If you are experiencing symptoms, please see your physician or call the Center at 281-428-4500 for more information.