Esophageal cancer prevention

You Can Have Protection and Relief from Heartburn

Whether you call it indigestion, heartburn, reflux or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), it’s still a potentially dangerous condition. Left untreated, GERD can lead to painful swallowing, food sticking, ulcers, Barrett’s esophagus or even esophageal cancer. In fact, esophageal cancer is the seventh-leading cause of cancer death worldwide.

That’s why it’s so much easier to get evaluated and treated early. As an advanced gastrointestinal specialist, Peyton P. Berookim, MD, provides leading-edge care for heartburn, reflux and indigestion. He is a double board-certified and fellowship-trained physician who offers the most advanced gastroenterological treatments.

What You Should Know About Heartburn and Indigestion

GERD affects an estimated 5% to 7% of the world’s population, including men, women and children. Yet GERD is often undiagnosed and its symptoms are misunderstood. Though generally a treatable disease, GERD can cause serious complications – like Barrett’s esophagus (which is a precursor to esophageal cancer) – if it is not treated properly.

Persistent heartburn is the most frequent symptom of GERD. The disease is often present without symptoms. Heartburn is so common among people that it is often ignored. All too often, GERD is untreated, self-treated or mistreated.

GERD is a chronic disease. Treatment is usually continued on a long-term basis, even after symptoms are under control. We will help patients address issues such as compliance with long-term medication use and daily living adjustments. We do this through follow-up visits, discussion and patient education.

Effective treatments for GERD include lifestyle changes, medication and, in severe cases, surgery. People who suffer from persistent heartburn or other recurring symptoms must seek an accurate diagnosis and the most advanced, effective treatment available.

Dr. Berookim will also treat you with kindness, understanding and compassion. Instead of suffering with heartburn, GERD or acid reflux, call us today.

When it comes to gastrointestinal health, get the leading-edge know-how and heartfelt care you and your referring doctor can depend on. Visit Peyton P. Berookim, MD, at Gastroenterology Institute of Southern California. Call 310.271.1122 for help with your digestive problem. For your convenience, you can fill out our online Request an Appointment form to schedule your consultation with Dr. Berookim.