Yes, balloon dilation can effectively treat severe heartburn complications. Here is a quick summary of what you need to know.
- Relieves swallowing difficulties. This procedure expands a narrowed esophagus to help food pass easily.
- Treats severe complications. It addresses strictures caused by chronic acid reflux.
- Provides lasting relief. Many patients experience significant symptom improvement for months or years.
When you desperately want to get rid of heartburn, you might wonder if advanced treatments are the right choice. Yes, balloon dilation can help patients who suffer from severe complications of acid reflux. This procedure specifically targets the narrowing of the esophagus, which is a common consequence of long-term acid exposure.
Many people struggle with a burning sensation in their chest on a daily basis. They try various lifestyle changes and medications, but many still cannot find relief. If you are in this situation, a gastroenterologist can evaluate your condition and determine if a specialized procedure is necessary.
Treating severe acid reflux requires a comprehensive approach to healing the digestive tract. Your doctor will work with you to find a lasting solution for your discomfort.
What Causes Severe Heartburn Symptoms?
Heartburn occurs when stomach acid flows backward into the tube that connects the mouth and stomach. This tube is known as the esophagus. The protective lining of this tube is not designed to withstand harsh stomach acid.
Over time, this constant backwash of acid causes significant damage and inflammation. The body attempts to heal this damage by forming scar tissue. Unfortunately, this scar tissue can build up and cause the esophagus to narrow.
This narrowing is known as an esophageal stricture. When the passage becomes too narrow, you might experience severe pain, difficulty swallowing, and a feeling that food is stuck in your chest. At this stage, you need medical intervention to get rid of heartburn complications.
What Is a Balloon Dilation Esophagus Procedure?
A balloon dilation esophagus procedure is a medical technique used to widen a narrowed section of your digestive tract. A gastroenterologist performs this treatment during an upper endoscopy. They use a flexible tube with a camera to see inside your body.
Once the doctor locates the narrowed area, they guide a deflated balloon into the stricture. They then carefully inflate the balloon to stretch the surrounding tissue. This stretching breaks apart the scar tissue and widens the passage.
The procedure is typically quick, and patients receive sedation to remain comfortable. Afterward, you might experience a mild sore throat, but this usually resolves within a few days.
How Does Dilation Help You Get Rid of Heartburn?
It is important to understand that balloon dilation does not stop stomach acid from washing into the esophagus. Instead, it treats the severe physical complications caused by chronic acid reflux. By widening the esophagus, the procedure relieves the painful swallowing difficulties that accompany severe heartburn.
Once the stricture is open, food and liquids can pass smoothly into the stomach. This prevents food from becoming trapped, which can trigger further acid production and chest pain. Treating the stricture is a vital step to get rid of heartburn symptoms that disrupt your daily life.
After the dilation, your doctor will likely prescribe medication to reduce stomach acid. This prevents new scar tissue from forming and protects the newly opened passage.
What Medications Help Get Rid of Heartburn?
While a procedure fixes the physical narrowing, medications are necessary to control the underlying acid reflux. Doctors frequently recommend proton pump inhibitors to reduce the amount of acid your stomach produces. Common options include omeprazole (Prilosec), lansoprazole (Prevacid), and esomeprazole (Nexium).
Histamine blockers are another class of medications that decrease acid production. Famotidine (Pepcid) is a widely used medication in this category. Your doctor might also suggest over-the-counter antacids for immediate, short-term relief.
You must take these medications exactly as prescribed to get rid of heartburn permanently. If you stop taking them too soon, the acid will return and cause new damage to your esophagus.
Frequently Asked Questions About Heartburn Treatment
Patients often have many questions when facing a new medical procedure. Here are answers to some common concerns.
Is the procedure painful?
You will receive sedation medication to keep you relaxed and pain-free during the procedure. You will not feel the balloon inflating inside your body. You might have a mild sore throat afterward, but this is temporary.
How long do the results last?
The duration of relief varies from person to person. Some patients experience permanent relief after a single treatment. Others may need the procedure repeated if the scar tissue returns over time.
How can I prevent the stricture from returning?
The best way to prevent a recurrence is to strictly follow your doctor-prescribed acid suppression therapy. You must also avoid trigger foods, stop smoking, and maintain a healthy weight.
Ready to Get Rid of Heartburn in Westlake and Brooklyn, OH?
Do not let chronic acid reflux and swallowing difficulties control your life any longer. The medical professionals at North Shore Gastroenterology are here to help you get rid of heartburn safely and effectively. Our team has extensive experience performing balloon dilation of the esophagus.
We serve patients with compassionate care in both our Westlake and Brooklyn locations. We will thoroughly evaluate your symptoms, explain your treatment options, and create a personalized plan for you.
Please call our office today at (440) 808-1212 or submit our appointment request form to schedule your consultation. We welcome your call and look forward to helping you improve your digestive health.
