Talking to Your Doctor

Talking to Your Doctor About Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)

Michael Jubinville, MPH

You have a unique medical history. Therefore, it's essential to talk with your doctor about your personal risk factors or experience with GERD. By talking openly and regularly with your doctor, you can take an active role in your care.

General Tips for Gathering Information

Here are some tips that will make it easier for you to talk to your doctor:

Bring someone else with you. It helps to have another person hear what is said and think of questions to ask.
Write out your questions ahead of time, so you don't forget them.
Write down the answers you get. Make sure you understand what you are hearing. If you don't, tell the doctor. Ask for educational materials.
Ask where you can find more information. You have a right to know.

Specific Questions to Ask Your Doctor

About GERD

Could my symptoms be caused by GERD?
What are other potential causes of my symptoms?

About Your Risk of Developing GERD

Am I at increased risk for GERD?
Are there steps I can take to decrease my risk of developing GERD?

About Treatment Options

Are medicines sufficient to control GERD?
- What side effects are associated with these drugs?
- Will they interact with other medicines, over the counter products, or dietary and herbal supplements I am taking?
- How long will I have to take medicines?
If symptoms are managed, does this mean GERD is gone?
At what point should I consider surgery to control GERD?

About Lifestyle Changes

Do I have to eat a completely bland diet to control GERD?
Are there any restrictions on exercise?
Can you give me some advice for quitting smoking?

About Outlook

Are there complications that I should be concerned about?
How do I know if I have developed any of these complications?
How can I avoid these complications?

References:

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). EBSCO DynaMed Plus website. Available at: http://www.dynamed... . Updated September 14, 2017. Accessed August 20, 2018.

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Merck Manual Professional Version. Available at: https://www.merckmanuals.com/professional/gastrointestinal-disorders/esophageal-and-swallowing-disorders/gastroesophageal-reflux-disease-gerd. Updated April 2018. Accessed August 20, 2018.

Getting the most out of your doctor appointment. Family Doctor—American Academy of Family Physicians website. Available at: https://familydoctor.org/tips-for-talking-to-your-doctor. Updated January 19, 2018. Accessed August 20, 2018.

Last reviewed May 2018 by EBSCO Medical Review Board Daus Mahnke, MD
Last Updated: 8/20/2018

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