Lasting Relief From Acid Reflux, Heartburn, and Indigestion for Tomball Patients
Heartburn is a burning feeling in the chest that happens when stomach acid flows back up into the esophagus. Indigestion, or dyspepsia, is discomfort or fullness in the upper belly, often with bloating, nausea, or belching. Both are very common and usually occasional, but frequent symptoms may point to acid reflux disease (GERD) or another condition that needs care.
Common triggers include large or fatty meals, spicy or acidic foods, caffeine, alcohol, smoking, and eating close to bedtime. Underlying causes can include GERD, a hiatal hernia, H. pylori infection, ulcers, or certain medications. Being overweight or pregnant can also increase pressure on the stomach and worsen symptoms.
Heartburn and indigestion are closely linked to GERD, hiatal hernia, ulcers, and H. pylori infection. Occasional symptoms are normal, but see a gastroenterologist promptly if you have frequent heartburn, difficulty or pain swallowing, unintended weight loss, vomiting, black stools, or chest pain. Long-standing acid reflux can damage the esophagus and should be evaluated.
At Shaya Digestive & Liver Clinic, evaluation begins with a detailed discussion of symptoms, diet, medical history, medications, and lifestyle factors. Diagnostic evaluation may include:
Comprehensive Medical History
Understanding symptom patterns often provides valuable clues.
Blood Testing
Laboratory studies may help identify:
H. pylori Testing
Testing may be recommended when stomach-related symptoms are present.
SIBO Breath Testing
Used to evaluate bacterial overgrowth within the small intestine.
Colonoscopy
May be recommended depending on age, symptoms, family history, and risk factors.
Upper Endoscopy (EGD)
Can help evaluate reflux, gastritis, ulcers, and upper digestive tract disorders.
Dr. Saranya Addepally is a board-certified gastroenterologist with six years of clinical experience, treating a broad range of digestive and liver conditions. She is especially passionate about women’s GI health—areas where patients often feel overlooked or hesitant to seek care.
Her medical journey began in India, where she completed her training before moving to the United States to pursue advanced education in medicine and Gastroenterology at the University of Arkansas.
After several years in practice, she relocated to Houston to continue serving patients in the community. Following two years with a local group, she established her own practice, grounded in the principles and core values she believes are essential to delivering thoughtful, patient-centered care.
Heartburn is a burning feeling in the chest from acid reflux. Indigestion is discomfort or fullness in the upper belly. They often occur together.
Yes. Heartburn more than twice a week may be a sign of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), which should be evaluated and treated.
Common triggers include spicy, fatty, and acidic foods, chocolate, caffeine, alcohol, and large meals, especially close to bedtime.
See a doctor if heartburn is frequent, does not improve with over-the-counter medicine, or comes with trouble swallowing, weight loss, or black stools.
Yes. Untreated acid reflux over time can inflame or damage the esophagus and, in some cases, lead to a condition called Barrett esophagus.
You might. An upper endoscopy (EGD) may be recommended to examine the esophagus and stomach if symptoms are frequent, severe, or long-standing.
Treatment focuses on reducing acid, healing the esophagus, and addressing the cause. After evaluating your symptoms, your gastroenterologist builds a personalized plan that may include:
At Shaya Digestive & Liver Clinic, we provide:
There is no single “quick fix” for heartburn, but lasting relief is very achievable. See a gastroenterologist if heartburn is frequent or comes with warning signs like trouble swallowing, weight loss, or black stools. At Shaya Digestive & Liver Clinic we focus on practical, lasting solutions. To help prevent heartburn:
Offering Fast Track GI appointments
Specialized Gastroenterology Appointments Within 3–5 Business Days
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