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Questions for your Doctors



When discussing chronic acid reflux with your doctor, don’t be afraid to ask questions or request clarification if you don’t understand what you are hearing. Going to your appointment prepared with a list of questions and taking notes can help you remember what you wanted to know. Below is a list of questions you may want to discuss with your doctors:

Questions about acid reflux / GERD
  • Do I have GERD (acid reflux)?
  • Why do you think I have GERD?
  • Is my case mild, moderate or severe?
  • What conditions other than GERD could be causing my problems?
  • Which tests are you recommending to diagnose GERD and why?
  • Did I show any signs of esophagitis or Barrett’s esophagus?
  • What causes GERD?
  • What kinds of problems can GERD lead to?
  • Everyone's anatomy is different. What are the chances my chronic GERD might progress to a precancerous condition?
  • Should I be examined for esophageal cancer?
  • Will I need such exams in the future?
  • What can you tell me about the treatment options for GERD?
  • What treatments do you recommend for me and why?
  • What are the risks and benefits of my treatment options?
  • Can GERD be cured?
  • How long can I expect my GERD to last?
  • What can I expect the progression of my GERD to be over time?
  • What complications of GERD may develop?
  • What symptoms or signs should I look out for and report to you?
Questions about lifestyle changes
  • What lifestyle changes do you recommend for me?
  • What changes in my diet can help my symptoms?
  • What foods or substances can make my symptoms worse?
  • Will losing weight help my GERD?
Questions about medical therapy
  • What is the difference between over the counter and prescription medications?
  • Do I need prescription medicine?
  • What is the best time of day to take my medication?
  • Can I take my medicine as needed or do I have to take it every day?
  • How long should I take the medication for?
  • What side effects or risks can I expect?
  • Are there any medications I am currently taking that can interact with the medications you’re prescribing for GERD?
  • What do you know about the adverse effects of long-term use of PPIs?
  • Is it true that PPIs and other pharmaceutical treatments can lose their effectiveness over time?
Questions about antireflux surgery
  • Is surgery appropriate for me?
  • Is surgery a better choice than taking medication for years?
  • How are the surgeries done?
  • What are the risks?
  • How well do the surgeries work?
  • What has been your success rate with antireflux surgery?
  • What is the difference between a total fundoplication and a partial fundoplication?
  • Will I ever need to have surgery again for reflux?
  • Are you aware of the new incisionless GERD surgery called TIF?



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This site is published by EndoGastric Solutions, Inc., which developed it as an information resource to help increase awareness of GERD-related disorders and the available treatment options. This site is not a substitute for medical advice from your physician. The contents of the site are for informational purposes only and are intended to be discussed with your physician. Never disregard any advice given to you by your physician or other qualified health care professional. Always seek the advice of a physician or other licensed health care professional regarding any questions you have about your medical conditions and treatments.