Acid Reflux and GERD

Acid reflux happens when the muscle at the bottom of the esophagus relaxes when it should stay closed, letting stomach acid flow back up. This backflow causes the burning feeling known as heartburn. When reflux happens two or more times a week or irritates the esophagus, it is called GERD, short for gastroesophageal reflux disease. Avita MD primary care providers diagnose and manage acid reflux and GERD for adults in Los Altos, Mountain View, and Los Gatos.

What are the symptoms of acid reflux and GERD?

The most common symptom is heartburn, a burning feeling in the chest or throat. Symptoms often appear after meals or when lying down.

• Heartburn, a burning feeling in the chest or throat
• Tasting acid or food at the back of the mouth
• Trouble swallowing or pain when swallowing
• A dry cough, hoarse voice, or asthma-like symptoms
• Chest discomfort, especially after eating

Common triggers vs. management

Common triggers	How to manage them
Spicy, fatty, or fried foods	Choose smaller, lighter meals
Chocolate, caffeine, alcohol	Limit or avoid known triggers
Large meals late at night	Finish eating 2 to 3 hours before bed
Lying down after eating	Stay upright; raise the head of the bed
Excess weight, smoking	Weight management and quitting smoking

How does Avita MD diagnose and treat acid reflux and GERD?

Diagnosis usually begins with your symptom history and a physical exam. Many cases respond to lifestyle changes and acid-reducing medication, and your Avita MD provider works with you to find the combination that controls symptoms. On-site labs are available when bloodwork helps rule out related causes, and your results are tracked over time so the plan can be adjusted as needed.

Same-day and next-day appointments mean you can be seen quickly when symptoms flare. If reflux does not improve with treatment, or if warning signs appear, Avita MD coordinates referrals for testing such as upper endoscopy and to gastroenterology, so the right next step happens without delay. Because reflux and weight are connected, your provider can also link care with the practice’s broader gut health and primary care services.

When should you see a doctor about acid reflux and GERD?

See a primary care provider if heartburn happens often, lasts despite over-the-counter medicine, or interferes with sleep and daily life. Get prompt care for trouble swallowing, food getting stuck, unintended weight loss, vomiting, or black or bloody stools, since these can signal a more serious problem. Chest pain with shortness of breath, sweating, or pain spreading to the arm or jaw can be a heart attack and is a medical emergency. When in doubt, call your provider or seek emergency care rather than assuming the pain is reflux.