GERD (Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease)

Gastroesophageal reflux disease, referred to as GERD, is a condition that causes stomach acid to flow back through the esophagus, which is the tube that connects the mouth and the stomach. When stomach acid flows back through the esophagus, it is called acid reflux, and this can cause irritation to the lining of the esophagus.

Occasional acid reflux is common and typically does not mean a person has GERD. On the other hand, someone with GERD experiences mild acid reflux at least two times per week, or a moderate to severe bout of reflux at least once weekly.

In most cases, lifestyle changes and over-the-counter medications can improve GERD symptoms. People who have a more severe case of GERD may require prescription medications or surgery.

Find a Location in Your Area

Request an Appointment

Fields marked with an * are required

What Our Patients Are Saying

Digestive Health Institute | Gastroenterology
Excellent
4.7
Based on 2433 reviews
review us on
Staff were very knowledgeable and caring of my needs. Highly recommend.
I trust Johnathan with my life literally. I have been with this group for over 25 years Chrones IBS etc. A few months back hospitalized for 13 days after a very long remission. Every day one of the GI drs were there to see me.They continued daily to assess and answer all my concerns.I will continue to see Jonathan as needed as he is by far one of the most compassionate educated of any GI I've worked with on remaining healthy 😀
Each person I had contact with was friendly and helpful. From the receptionist to the nurse to the DR herself!! If you have digestive problems,this is the place to come!!!
I have used your facility several times. I have always found it to be extremely clean the staff is very thorough considerate and knowledgeable. They answered any questions I asked them they were very caring and concerned and respectful of me they were quick at what they did they knew what they were doing. This will be the only facility I ever use. Great job guys I appreciate your kindness and your professionalism
My experience at DHI had always been excellent. We are always greeted & welcomed immediately upon arrival. All caregivers & physicians have met or exceeded our expectations - Scott in particular is very thorough and explains thoroughly in a way that we understand. We highly recommend DHI.
Finally, I had a gastroenterologist listen to me and work to find the problem that I’m having where at other places that was not the case
Don listen to what I had to say. He presented research information. We then discussed all sides of my issue, and came up with a plan, we both agreed upon.
Everyone was Everyone nice
Very professional, quick and efficient extremely happy
I was welcome made to feel comfortable. Good experience!
js_loader

Our Doctors

We’re proud of our team here at Digestive Health Institute. Our health care providers include some of the very best colorectal surgeons, gastroenterologists and physician assistants. To learn more about our qualified team of specialists, click their image or visit our providers page.

Lucas Julien, MD

Razvan Opreanu, MD

Scott Plaehn, DO, FACOI

Albert Ross, MD

John Walling, Jr., DO, FACOI

Siaka Yusuf, MD

Dorian Jones, MD

Our Locations

FAQs

What happens during my first visit?
If you are a new patient, you can expect to have a complete physical exam. You will also be asked detailed questions about your current problems and your past medical history, your current medications, allergies, your family history and other pertinent medical information. If you are taking medications, please bring a completed medical history form with you to your appointment. Once the physician has reviewed your medical information and completed the physical examination, a plan of care will be developed. You may need to be seen again in the office, be referred back to your family physician for follow-up care, or require additional testing. If additional tests are needed, we will assist you in scheduling these tests.
What if I need to schedule an endoscopic procedure?
An endoscopic procedure allows the physician to visualize a part of your gastrointestinal tract with a special instrument called an endoscope. If your family physician has ordered testing, you will be contacted by telephone by one of our staff members. If an Digestive Health Institute physician orders testing and you are in the office, the procedure can generally be scheduled during the course of your visit. You will be given a date, time, and location for the test, as well as written instructions telling you how to prepare for the test. If you have any questions about the procedure, please feel free to ask one of our staff members or the physician.
How do I get test results?
We ask that you wait 10 to 14 days before contacting us for results. Often results come from several different sources. This information needs to be compiled and reviewed by your physician before you can be appropriately advised. You may call 517-332-1200 and press “8″ and your call will be directed to the triage nurse.
What insurances do you accept?
Digestive Health Institute accepts payment from most insurance companies including Medicare, Blue Cross/Blue Shield, Blue Care Network, Physicians Health Plan, Cofinity, Sparrow Professional Health Network, Medicaid, McLaren, Health Plus, and several others. Accepted insurances are subject to change at any time without notice.

If your insurance requires an authorization from your primary care physician, you may be asked to assist us in obtaining this authorization.

All patients are responsible for all copays and deductibles at the time of service.

If you have any questions regarding your benefits or insurance coverage, please contact our Billing Department at 517-332-1200 #6.

What if I need to contact the doctor?
To contact your doctor during business hours please call our main number 517-332-1200. If you have an urgent need to speak with the doctor after hours please call our answering service at 517-483-9124 and the doctor on call will be paged. In the case of a medical emergency please proceed directly to the nearest hospital emergency room.

Related Content

Is a bleeding rectum a sign of food intolerance?

Is a bleeding rectum a sign of food intolerance?

Food intolerance is a term for when your body has a tougher time digesting certain foods than others. Some reactions may be mild, while others may be very intense. Whether a food intolerance presents itself as a risk to a patient is for a gastrointestinal specialist...

What is Bloating?

What is Bloating?

Bloating is the feeling of having a full stomach, and it is accompanied by a distended abdomen or an increase in the stomach’s size. Bloating typically involves the accumulation of gas in the intestines, resulting in swelling of the stomach. What are the causes of...

3 questions to ask your gastro specialist during your first visit

3 questions to ask your gastro specialist during your first visit

A gastrointestinal specialist is someone with extensive medical knowledge of the gastrointestinal system. They are professionals who are great resources for a variety of digestive disorders and gastrointestinal conditions. People with these issues can get diagnoses of...

Sign Up for Our Newsletter

Fields marked with an * are required

MonTueWedThuFriSatSun
311234567891011121314151617181920212223242526272829301234567891011