Will Nexium or surgery do the trick?

Patients who are experiencing heartburn may want to know what they options they have for treatment. Perhaps the simplest way to go about finding relief is through purchasing Nexium from an online pharmacy. However, in some cases, doctors may recommend that individuals undergo surgery. It's important to know the about the procedures that are performed for treating severe acid reflux, such as GERD.

Anti-reflux surgery
Those who are suffering from heartburn due to muscle issues within the esophagus may be directed by health care professionals to seek out anti-reflux surgery. In these cases, the natural opening from the diaphragm to the esophagus is too large, allowing stomach acid to make its way up the throat.

During a procedure called a fundoplication, the surgeon would first repair a hiatal hernia, which is when the stomach protrudes through the enlarged opening. This requires stitches. Once that is completed, some doctors choose to place a piece of mesh to prevent further complications. Finally, the doctor stitches the stomach around the end of the esophagus in order to prevent acid from traveling through its usual route.

If a doctor chooses to repair the esophagus through an open repair, then he or she will make a surgical cut to the abdomen in order to administer a tube that keeps the stomach in place. This avoids future issues of acid reflux. During a laparoscopic surgery, the same thing is done, but through multiple small incisions to the abdomen.

Another option is a radiofrequency treatment, which is performed using high-energy waves. These are directed toward the wall of the lower esophagus, and helps to reduce symptoms for most individuals. It's important that patients first talk with their doctors about all of the options and whether or not it is necessary to use Nexium or surgery for relief.

Making the decision
Patients who continue to have severe acid reflux while on medications are good candidates for anti-reflux surgery. Other reasons an individual may opt for a procedure include esophagitis (caused by severe inflammation), if the symptoms result in a narrowing of the esophagus or when Barrett's esophagus occurs - this is when there is a change to cells to the area due to acid reflux.

In any case, it is generally best to try heartburn medications like Nexium for treatment of symptoms first. If unsuccessful over a standard period of time, patients will then want to move forward with learning about more serious preventative measures.