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Heartburn

Questions to ask your doctor

If you've been diagnosed with GERD, you may want to talk with your doctor to find out more. GERD stands for gastroesophageal reflux disease. If you get heartburn more than twice a week, you may have GERD.

Here are some questions that you might want to ask.

How do you know that I have GERD? Do I need any tests?
How likely is it that my esophagus has been damaged by GERD?
Do I need to take medication to treat GERD?
How likely is it that GERD will get better on its own?
What will happen to me if I don't get treatment?
What's the best treatment for me?
Do the pills have any side effects?
How long will I need to take the pills?
Will I still need to take the pills once I stop having symptoms?
Are there any changes I should make in my life that might help my symptoms? Are there things I should avoid doing?
Is surgery an option for me? What are the pros and cons?

This information was last updated on Jan 07, 2009

This information is for educational use only, and is not a substitute for prompt professional medical advice. Readers should always consult a physician or other professional for advice and treatment.
© BMJ Publishing Group Limited 2009. All rights reserved.

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