Acid Reflux Doctors

Internist/Family Practice Physician

If you’re experiencing the symptoms of acid reflux you should make an appointment to see your primary health-care provider or a gastroenterologist, a physician who specializes in treating diseases of the stomach and intestines.

If your physician determines that you have acid reflux, he or she will most likely prescribe medication to help control your acid reflux symptoms.

After you’ve been prescribed medication for acid reflux, pay careful attention to your body to see how it is reacting to the drugs. You should call your doctor to schedule an appointment immediately if:

• You feel the need to increase the recommended or prescribed dosage on your own
• Symptoms get worse or do not improve

Go to the emergency room if:

• You have severe chest pain
• You experience severe shortness of breath

Gastroenterologist

Gastroenterologists are physicians who specialize in treating diseases and conditions of the gastrointestinal tract or digestive system: from the mouth to the esophagus, the stomach, the large and small intestine (colon) and the rectum. Most gastroenterologists are board certified and have spent an additional two or three years training in their specialty. If your child has acid reflux or your pediatrician suspects that your child has GERD, he or she may refer you to a pediatric gastroenterologist.

Pediatrician

A pediatrician is an internist who has completed up to four additional years of training in caring for the health of children. A pediatrician will be able to diagnose and prescribe the appropriate treatment for a child suffering from acid reflux or GERD symptoms or will refer the child to the appropriate specialist.