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GERD (Acid Reflux) Specialist

Albert M. Harary, MD

Gastroenterologist located in Midtown East/Upper East Side, New York, NY

That constant burning in your throat and chest after meals is a condition known as gastroesophageal reflux disease, or GERD, and comes with symptoms severe enough to reduce your quality of life. At his New York City practice in Midtown East/Upper East Side, Dr. Albert M. Harary specializes in gastroenterology, including the treatment GERD and its symptoms to protect your esophagus from damage and alleviate chronic burning and discomfort. To schedule a consultation to learn more about GERD, use online booking or call Dr. Harary’s Manhattan office directly.

Gerd (Acid Reflux) Q & A


This information is intended only to provide general guidance. It does not provide definitive medical advice. It is important that you consult your doctor about your specific condition.


What is GERD?

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a condition where your stomach contents back up into your esophagus, the tube that carries food from your mouth into your stomach.

Between your esophagus and stomach, you have a valve known as the lower esophageal sphincter. When you have GERD, this valve isn’t functioning properly,

What are the symptoms of GERD?

The most common symptoms of GERD are heartburn, a burning sensation in your chest, and regurgitation. You may also experience additional symptoms associated with GERD, including:

  • Sore throat
  • Hoarseness
  • Coughing
  • Nausea
  • Chest pain
  • Bad breath
  • Full feeling in your chest

In some cases, GERD can trigger asthma symptoms, such as difficult breathing and wheezing.

You should schedule a visit with Dr. Harary if symptoms of GERD becoming uncomfortable or limit your quality of life.

What causes GERD?

Your lower esophageal sphincter may not function properly, permitting stomach acid to travel into your esophagus. This dysfunction may be the result of weak muscles or conditions like a hiatal hernia. This type of hernia results when your abdominal muscles bulge into your chest cavity.

Other causes of GERD include:

  • Obesity
  • Smoking
  • Pregnancy
  • Tight clothing
  • Consuming alcohol
  • Use of certain medications
  • Eating fatty or fried foods

If you’re sensitive to acidic foods, you may experience GERD symptoms after consuming citrus fruits or coffee.

How is GERD diagnosed?

Dr. Harary often diagnoses GERD by reviewing your symptoms and performing a physical examination.

If you experience additional symptoms, such as unexplained weight loss or chest pain, Dr. Harary may recommend an upper GI endoscopy to take a closer look at the internal structures of your esophagus.

Dr. Harary may also evaluate and measure the acid present in your esophagus through a testing procedure known as ambulatory esophageal reflux pH monitoring.

What treatment options are available for GERD?

Dr. Harary may initially recommend avoiding certain foods that can worsen GERD symptoms. He might also suggest certain lifestyle changes to improve your symptoms, including:

  • Quitting smoking
  • Losing weight
  • Not eating large meals
  • Avoiding eating within three hours of bedtime

Dr. Harary may recommend over-the-counter or prescription medications to neutralize stomach acid or block the production of acid in your stomach to reduce GERD symptoms.

If you can’t tolerate these medications or continue to have persistent episodes of reflux or regurgitation, Dr. Harary may recommend surgical options. Surgery may also be necessary to repair a hiatal hernia.

Learn more about treating and preventing GERD by scheduling a consultation online or by phone today.

For more details on GERD, click here.