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Parties, family gatherings and indulgent foods are all highlights of the holiday season. But if you live with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) or other abdominal issues, these seasonal favorites can be a big pain. And you're not alone.
Salt Lake Regional Medical Center estimates that between 20% to 40% of Americans suffer from GERD, a chronic condition that affects the digestive system. Heartburn, chest pain and regurgitation are the most common symptoms. Unfortunately, many of your favorite holiday treats (e.g., alcohol, caffeine, chocolate, citrus and high-fat foods) are some of the biggest triggers.
Many people manage their condition with over-the-counter drugs and minor lifestyle changes. But if these symptoms are interfering with your ability to enjoy the holidays (and day-to-day life), it's time to seek better methods of relief.
Here's what you should know about GERD and new treatment options that could potentially eradicate your symptoms altogether.
When to see a doctor for GERD
Everyone experiences abdominal discomfort and gastrointestinal problems from time to time. However, there's a difference between an occasional annoyance and a disruptive condition that requires medical attention.
Acid reflux is that unpleasant burning feeling in your chest or throat when stomach acid moves back into your esophagus. According to Healthline, GERD is a chronic form of acid reflux that happens more than twice a week.
And if you notice any of the following symptoms, Salt Lake Regional Medical Center says it's time to call your doctor:
- Difficulty swallowing or pain when swallowing
- Vomiting
- Severe hoarseness or wheezing
- Discomfort interfering with daily activities
When surgery might be your best option
GERD is more than just a mere annoyance. If left untreated, it can lead to more severe health problems. When medications and lifestyle changes aren't helping, you may want to discuss surgery options with your doctor.
Instead of simply treating the symptoms, your doctor can go straight to the source of the problem: your esophagus. Through a minimally-invasive procedure, they can tighten your esophageal sphincter, which prevents stomach acid from backing up.
Robot-assisted technology leads to more precise outcomes
If you've been hesitant about surgery in the past, perhaps the latest research can ease your concerns. Robot-assisted technology has made surgical procedures even more safe and effective, according to a study published in the Journal of the American College of Surgeons.
Salt Lake Regional Medical Center opened the first and only Robotic Center of Excellence in Utah in 2014. And beginning in 2020, they are the first to offer minimally-invasive surgery using the da Vinci Xi Surgical System developed by Intuitive Surgical.
Not only does this system make it easier for physicians to operate, but it provides several benefits for patients as well. An Intuitive Surgical executive told Forbes that this method led to shorter hospital stays and fewer disruptions to patients' daily activities.
Correct your GERD, hernias, gallbladder issues and more
GERD isn't the only condition you can correct with robot-assisted technology. Under the direction of Robotic Coordinator Whitney Harrison, several procedures have since been added. Board-certified surgeons at Salt Lake Regional Medical Center now perform a range of surgical procedures using da Vinci technology, including:
- General Surgery (including hernia repair and bariatric surgery)
- Hernia Repair
- Hysterectomy (removal of the uterus)
- Myomectomy (removal of uterine fibroids)
- Prostatectomy (removal of the prostate)
- Thyroidectomy (removal of the thyroid)
- Weight Loss Surgery
Choose an experienced team of medical professionals
Even more important than state-of-the-art surgical technology is the medical personnel in charge of operating it. That's why you want a team of highly-experienced doctors at the helm of your treatment — and that's what you'll find at Salt Lake Regional Medical Center. The team of skilled surgeons and staff includes:
- Walter Medlin, MD
- Andrea Smith, MD
- Dinhkim Le, MD
- Kristen Lilja, MD
- Justin Atherton, DO
- Kayleen Evans, Clinical Director of Surgery (30 years of experience)
- Adrianna Montgomery, OR Manager (20 years of experience)
- Doug Caldwell, OR Manager (15 years of experience)
- Peggy Lovell, CNOR primary robotic RN
Salt Lake Regional Medical Center also serves as a training site for surgeons and staff for Steward Health Care and other healthcare networks. With their collective expertise and decades of experience, you know you're in good hands.
Book an appointment today
Why continue to live in pain and discomfort? Seeking treatment for your GERD, gallbladder or hernia issues is the best gift you could give yourself this holiday season. Schedule an appointment with a Salt Lake Regional Medical Center provider today to see if a minimally invasive procedure is right for you.
