Acid Reflux Treatment at DRHC Dubai

At the DRHC Gastroenterology Clinic, our gastroenterologists diagnose the cause of recurring reflux and provide personalised medical, diagnostic, and endoscopic treatment options.

Same-day gastroenterology appointments available.

What is acid reflux?

Acid reflux happens when stomach contents flow backwards into the oesophagus. It may cause a burning sensation in the chest, an acidic taste or food coming back up after eating.

Occasional reflux is common. When symptoms happen repeatedly, disturb sleep or affect daily life, the condition may be diagnosed as GERD.

Common acid reflux symptoms

• Frequent heartburn
• Sour or bitter taste
• Regurgitation after meals
• Upper abdominal discomfort
• Night-time reflux
• Persistent burping
• Nausea after eating
• Chronic cough or throat clearing
• Hoarseness
• Difficulty swallowing

Difficulty swallowing or the sensation that food is getting stuck may indicate a swallowing or motility disorder and should be properly investigated.

When should you see a gastroenterologist?

Book an appointment when:

• Reflux happens regularly
• Symptoms continue despite medication
• You frequently depend on over-the-counter remedies
• Reflux wakes you during the night
• Symptoms return after stopping treatment
• You experience difficulty swallowing
• You have unexplained weight loss
• You experience vomiting or signs of gastrointestinal bleeding

Severe or sudden chest pain should be assessed urgently, especially when associated with sweating, breathlessness, dizziness or pain spreading to the arm or jaw.

How is acid reflux diagnosed?

Your gastroenterologist will review your symptoms, medical history, and previous treatment. Depending on your condition, the doctor may recommend one or more of the following tests.

Gastroscopy

A gastroscopy examines the oesophagus, stomach and upper small intestine. It may help detect inflammation, a hiatal hernia, oesophageal narrowing, Barrett’s oesophagus or stomach and duodenal ulcers.

Learn more about endoscopy services at DRHC.

Wireless pH monitoring

Wireless pH monitoring measures acid exposure inside the oesophagus. It may help confirm reflux when gastroscopy results are normal, or symptoms continue despite treatment.

Oesophageal manometry

Oesophageal manometry measures the strength and coordination of the oesophageal muscles. It may be recommended when reflux symptoms occur with difficulty swallowing, food sticking, or unexplained chest discomfort.

Conditions that may feel like acid reflux

Heartburn and upper abdominal discomfort are not always caused by GERD. Similar symptoms may be associated with:

• Indigestion
• Stomach and duodenal ulcers
• H. pylori infection
• Oesophageal motility disorders
• Gastroparesis

A proper diagnosis helps prevent unnecessary or ineffective long-term treatment.

Acid reflux treatment at DRHC

Treatment depends on the severity of your symptoms, investigation results, and response to previous medication.

Lifestyle and dietary guidance

Your doctor may recommend:

• Eating smaller meals
• Avoiding food close to bedtime
• Identifying personal food triggers
• Remaining upright after eating
• Reducing excess weight when appropriate
• Stopping smoking
• Raising the upper body during sleep

Medication

Treatment may include antacids, H2 blockers, or proton pump inhibitors. The medication, dose, and duration should be selected according to your symptoms and diagnosis.

Stretta treatment

For selected patients with confirmed GERD, Stretta treatment may be considered.

Stretta is an endoscopic procedure that applies controlled radiofrequency energy around the junction between the oesophagus and stomach. Suitability depends on gastroscopy findings, reflux testing, swallowing function, and the presence of a hiatal hernia.

Why choose DRHC for acid reflux care?

• Experienced gastroenterology specialists
• Same-day appointments subject to availability
• Gastroscopy and diagnostic endoscopy
• Wireless pH monitoring
• Oesophageal manometry
• Medical and endoscopic treatment options
• Personalised treatment based on diagnosis
• Day-case procedures in Dubai