Acid Reflux (GERD) Treatment in Delhi – Dr. Pankaj Puri, Fortis Escorts
If you experience a burning sensation in your chest after meals, a sour taste rising to your throat, or frequent regurgitation — you may be suffering from Acid Reflux or Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD). This is one of the most common digestive conditions in India, affecting an estimated 1 in 5 adults — yet it is frequently misdiagnosed or left untreated for years.
At Delhi Gastrocare, Fortis Escorts Hospital, Okhla, New Delhi, Dr. Pankaj Puri — FRCP (London & Edinburgh), DM Gastroenterology (PGIMER) — offers expert evaluation and personalised treatment for GERD and all esophageal disorders. With 38+ years of experience and advanced diagnostic technology available in-house, you receive a precise diagnosis and an effective treatment plan in a single visit.
What Is Acid Reflux (GERD)?
The stomach produces acid to break down food. Normally, the Lower Esophageal Sphincter (LES) — a muscular valve at the junction of the esophagus and stomach — closes tightly after food passes through. When the LES weakens or relaxes abnormally, stomach acid flows back (refluxes) into the esophagus.
This repeated exposure to acid gradually damages the esophageal lining, leading to inflammation (esophagitis), ulcers, and over time, a condition called Barrett’s Esophagus — which increases the risk of esophageal cancer if left untreated.
GERD is not just occasional heartburn. When acid reflux symptoms occur more than twice a week or interfere with daily life, it qualifies as GERD and requires medical evaluation by a gastroenterologist.
Symptoms of Acid Reflux & GERD
Many patients present to Dr. Pankaj Puri’s clinic after years of managing symptoms with over-the-counter antacids without addressing the underlying condition. These are the key symptoms to watch for:
Heartburn
Burning sensation in the chest or throat, usually worse after meals, at night, or when bending over.
Regurgitation
Sour or bitter-tasting acid backing up into the throat or mouth — a hallmark sign of GERD.
Difficulty Swallowing
Also called dysphagia — feeling food is stuck in the chest or throat due to inflammation or stricture.
Chronic Cough
Persistent dry cough without a cold or infection, caused by micro-aspiration of acid into the airway.
Chest Pain
GERD can mimic cardiac chest pain — proper evaluation is needed to rule out heart-related conditions.
Hoarseness / Sore Throat
Acid reaching the vocal cords can cause rough voice, throat clearing, or persistent sore throat.
Bloating & Burping
Excessive gas and burping after meals, often linked with delayed stomach emptying.
Nausea
Feeling of nausea especially after eating large, spicy, or oily meals.
Causes and Risk Factors of Acid Reflux
Acid reflux (GERD) can develop due to several lifestyle, dietary, and medical factors. Understanding the common causes and risk factors can help individuals take preventive measures and manage symptoms more effectively.
- Weak lower esophageal sphincter (LES)
- Overeating or consuming large meals
- Eating spicy, fatty, or fried foods
- Obesity or excess body weight
- Smoking and alcohol consumption
- Pregnancy-related hormonal changes
- Certain medications that trigger acid reflux
- Stress and unhealthy lifestyle habits
Diagnosis of GERD
Accurate diagnostic tests help doctors confirm GERD and determine the severity of acid reflux.
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Upper Gastrointestinal Endoscopy
A thin flexible tube with a camera is used to examine the esophagus and stomach lining to detect inflammation or damage caused by acid reflux.
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pH Monitoring Test
This test measures the amount of acid in the esophagus over a period of time and helps identify abnormal acid reflux episodes.
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Esophageal Manometry
Esophageal manometry evaluates the strength and coordination of the esophageal muscles and the lower esophageal sphincter.
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Barium Swallow X-ray
This imaging test helps visualize the esophagus and detect structural abnormalities or reflux-related problems.
Lifestyle Tips to Manage GERD
Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) can often be managed effectively with simple lifestyle changes. Adopting healthy eating habits and maintaining a balanced lifestyle can significantly reduce acid reflux symptoms and improve digestive health.
- Eat smaller and more frequent meals
- Avoid spicy, oily, and acidic foods
- Do not lie down immediately after eating
- Maintain a healthy body weight
- Quit smoking and alcohol consumption
- Sleep with the head slightly elevated
- Reduce caffeine intake
Treatment Options for Acid Reflux (GERD) in Delhi
Dr. (Brig) Pankaj Puri follows a personalised step-up approach for GERD treatment — beginning with conservative therapies and progressing to advanced procedures only when necessary.
Lifestyle & Dietary Modifications
Mild to moderate GERD can often be controlled effectively through targeted lifestyle changes.
- Eat smaller, more frequent meals
- Avoid eating before sleeping
- Eliminate spicy, fried & acidic foods
- Elevate the head while sleeping
- Maintain healthy body weight
- Quit smoking & reduce alcohol
- Avoid tight clothing around waist
Medications
Medications are prescribed based on symptom severity and diagnostic evaluation.
- Antacids – Gelusil, Digene, Eno
- H2 Blockers – Famotidine, Ranitidine
- PPIs – Pantoprazole, Omeprazole
- Prokinetics – Domperidone
- Alginate Therapy – Gaviscon
Advanced Diagnostic Monitoring
Persistent symptoms require specialised testing to evaluate reflux severity and esophageal function.
These tests help identify LES dysfunction, motility disorders, and non-acid reflux for personalised treatment planning.
Endoscopic & Surgical Treatment
Advanced procedures are recommended for severe or medication-resistant GERD.
Nissen Fundoplication
Laparoscopic anti-reflux surgery for long-term relief.
LINX Device
Magnetic LES reinforcement system.
TIF Procedure
Incision-free endoscopic anti-reflux treatment.
Stretta Procedure
Radiofrequency therapy to strengthen LES muscles.
Why Choose Dr. Pankaj Puri for GERD Treatment in Delhi?
Advanced diagnosis, internationally trained expertise, and evidence-based GERD treatment at Fortis Escorts, Okhla, New Delhi.
38+ Years of Gastroenterology Expertise
Dr. Pankaj Puri has diagnosed and treated thousands of GERD patients, including complex and refractory acid reflux cases that other treatments failed to resolve.
FRCP (London & Edinburgh) + DM PGIMER
One of the most qualified gastroenterologists in India with elite training from globally recognised institutions and advanced gastroenterology expertise.
All Diagnostic Tests In-House at Fortis Escorts
24-Hour pH-Metry, Esophageal Manometry, Upper GI Endoscopy, and Barium Swallow tests are available under one roof for accurate GERD diagnosis.
Personalised, Evidence-Based Treatment Plans
Every GERD patient receives a customised treatment plan based on symptoms, lifestyle factors, diagnostic findings, and complete medical history.
Research Leader in Gastroenterology
With 80+ peer-reviewed publications and active involvement in the INASL Governing Council, Dr. Pankaj Puri continues to shape modern gastroenterology and liver disease treatment guidelines in India.
Frequently Asked Questions – Acid Reflux & GERD Treatment in Delhi
Get answers to common questions about acid reflux, GERD diagnosis, treatment, surgery, food restrictions, and specialist care.
The best GERD treatment depends on your symptoms and severity. Dr. (Brig) Pankaj Puri at Delhi Gastrocare, Fortis Escorts Okhla, performs a complete evaluation including Upper GI Endoscopy and 24-Hour pH-Metry before creating a personalised treatment plan.
Mild to moderate GERD responds well to lifestyle changes and medications. Severe cases caused by hiatal hernia or LES weakness may require anti-reflux surgery such as Nissen Fundoplication for long-term relief.
GERD treatment costs vary depending on diagnostic tests and treatment needs. Tests like endoscopy, esophageal manometry, and 24-Hour pH-Metry are available at Fortis Escorts, Okhla.
Avoid spicy foods, fried foods, citrus fruits, tomatoes, chocolate, caffeine, alcohol, and carbonated drinks. Smaller meals and avoiding food before bedtime can also help reduce acid reflux symptoms.
Acid reflux refers to occasional acid backflow into the esophagus, while GERD is a chronic condition where reflux occurs frequently and causes symptoms or complications requiring medical care.
You should consult a Gastroenterologist. Dr. (Brig) Pankaj Puri is one of Delhi’s leading gastroenterologists with 38+ years of experience and advanced training from PGIMER Chandigarh and Kings College Hospital London.
Untreated long-term GERD may lead to Barrett’s Esophagus, which increases the risk of esophageal cancer. Regular evaluation and endoscopy help detect complications early.