When discussing chronic acid reflux, or GERD, with your doctor, it’s best to ask questions and request clarification if you don’t fully understand something. We highly recommend you bring a list of questions and plan to take written notes. Asking a family member or friend to go with you to listen and help with notes is also encouraged.
Below are some questions you may want to discuss with your doctor:
Questions about Acid Reflux / GERD
- Do I have GERD or simply acid reflux?
- What causes GERD?
- What symptoms lead you to believe I have GERD?
- Is my case mild, moderate, or severe?
- What conditions separate from GERD could be agitating my symptoms?
- Which tests do you recommend to diagnose GERD and why?
- What complications can GERD lead to down the line?
- Everyone’s anatomy is different. What are the chances my chronic GERD might progress to a more serious condition?
Questions about Treatment Options
- What are the treatment options for GERD?
- Which treatments do you recommend for me and why?
- What are the benefits of my treatment options? The risks?
- How long can I expect my GERD symptoms to last?
- What can I expect the progression of my GERD to be over time?
- What symptoms or signs should I look out for?
- Do I have non-acid reflux?
- Do I have a hiatal hernia? If so, what type and how large?
Questions about Lifestyle Changes
- Are there any lifestyle changes I can incorporate to lessen my GERD symptoms? Which do you recommend first?
- What foods should I eat to help control my symptoms?
- What foods or substances should I avoid to manage my symptoms?
- Will losing weight help my GERD?
- Can sleeping with my head elevated help my nighttime symptoms?
Questions about Medical Therapy
- When should I take antacid vs H2 blockers vs PPI’s?
- What are the major differences between over the counter and prescription medications?
- Do I need prescription medicine?
- What is the best time of day to take my medication?
- Can I take my medication as needed or do I have to taket routinely?
- How long should I take medication for?
- What side effects or risks can I expect?
- Are there any medications that I am currently taking that can interact with the medications you may prescribe for GERD?
- Are there any adverse effects of long-term use of PPIs?
- Is it true that PPIs and other medication treatments can lose their effectiveness over time?
What is the “rebound effect”?
Questions about Anti-reflux Procedures and Surgery
- Is the TIF procedure or traditional antireflux surgery appropriate for me?
- Is the TIF procedure or traditional antireflux surgery a better choice than taking over the counter and prescription medication regularly to treat GERD?
- How does the TIF procedure differ from traditional surgeries?
- What are the benefits? The risks?
- How well do the TIF procedure and traditional antireflux surgeries work?
- What has been your success rate with antireflux procedures?
- What is the difference between a total and a partial fundoplication?
- Will I ever need to have another procedure after the TIF procedure for reflux?
- If I choose the TIF procedure now, will I still be eligible for traditional surgery later, if needed?
- Of all the procedures and surgical techniques available, which do you offer?
References:
[1] Varin, O., et al. Total vs Partial Fundoplication in the Treatment of Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease:A Meta-Analysis. Arch Surg. 2009; 144(3): 273-278.
[2] Jobe, B.A., et. al. Endoscopic Appraisal of the Gastroesophageal Valve After Antireflux Surgery. Am J of Gastro 2004.
[3] Little, A., et. al. Mechanisms of Action of Antireflux Surgery: Theory and Fact. World J of Surg. 1992;16:320-5.
[4] Nissen R, The Treatment of Hiatal Hernia and Esophageal Reflux by Fundoplication. Hernia 1964;30:488-496.
[5] Adler, R.H., et. al. A valve mechanism to prevent gastroesophageal reflux and esophagitis. Surgery 1958;44:63-75.