Acid reflux (GERD)
Do you experience frequent heartburn or regurgitation? You may have acid reflux (GERD) and could benefit from a consultation to discuss treatment options.
Get treatment for acid reflux (GERD) today
$49
- Self-pay visits - insurance not accepted or needed, FSA/HSA eligible
- No appointment needed
- Your health data is secure and protected by our practices and by law
How it works
- Connect with the doctor through instant messaging
- Pick up any prescribed medication at a pharmacy of your choice or have it delivered
- Your care team is available 7 days a week
What is acid reflux (GERD)?
Acid reflux, also known as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), occurs when stomach acid frequently flows back into the esophagus, irritating its lining. This backwash of acid can irritate the lining of your esophagus and cause a burning sensation in your chest or throat known as heartburn. GERD can cause uncomfortable symptoms like heartburn, chest pain, regurgitation, and difficulty swallowing. If left untreated, GERD can lead to complications such as esophageal damage or Barrett's esophagus.
What are the symptoms of acid reflux (GERD)?
Common symptoms include heartburn, regurgitation, a sour or bitter taste in the mouth, difficulty swallowing, chest pain, and a chronic cough.
How do you treat GERD?
Treatment for GERD focuses on reducing acid production, managing symptoms, and preventing complications. This often involves lifestyle changes, over-the-counter antacids, and prescription medications such as proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) or H2 receptor blockers.
Is a chat-visit right for me?
You may be a good candidate for a chat-visit with Well Revolution if:
- You're 18-64 years old.
- You have a previous diagnosis of GERD or experience symptoms such as frequent heartburn.
- Your symptoms are mild to moderate and don't include severe chest pain or difficulty swallowing.
- You're not experiencing symptoms like vomiting blood or black stools.
- You don't have unexplained weight loss or signs of an esophageal tear.
If you have severe or alarming symptoms, seek in-person care immediately.
Common acid reflux (GERD) treatments
Treatment for GERD typically involves:
- Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs): Omeprazole (Prilosec), Esomeprazole (Nexium), Lansoprazole (Prevacid)
- H2 Receptor Blockers: Ranitidine (Zantac), Famotidine (Pepcid)
- Antacids: Tums, Rolaids, Maalox, Mylanta
- Prokinetics: Metoclopramide (Reglan)
Surgical treatments, such as fundoplication, are not available through Chat-visit. Prescription-strength PPIs and other medications for GERD may not be available through Chat-visit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can GERD be cured?
While there's no cure for GERD, it can be effectively managed with lifestyle changes and medications to reduce symptoms and prevent complications.
How is GERD diagnosed?
GERD is typically diagnosed based on symptoms, but sometimes additional tests like endoscopy or pH monitoring are needed.
What is the difference between acid reflux and GERD?
Acid reflux is the occasional backflow of stomach acid into the esophagus, while GERD is a chronic and more severe form of acid reflux that occurs at least twice a week.
What are some lifestyle changes that can help manage acid reflux?
Lifestyle changes that can help include avoiding trigger foods (like fatty or spicy foods, chocolate, caffeine, and alcohol), eating smaller meals, losing weight if you're overweight or obese, and not eating close to bedtime.
Can GERD cause serious complications?
Yes, if left untreated, GERD can lead to complications such as esophagitis, esophageal strictures, or Barrett's esophagus, which increases the risk of esophageal cancer.
Are there any over-the-counter medications that can help with acid reflux?
Yes, antacids and H2 blockers are available over-the-counter and can provide temporary relief from heartburn.
About Well Revolution
What does it cost?
Most visits cost $49 between 7 am and 9 pm 7 days (Mon-Sun).
See our pricing page for more information.
How do visits work in Well Revolution?
Start a private and secure instant message with a Well Revolution doctor right here from your phone or desktop.
You can send text, voice and video messages, share images, videos and documents, and have voice and video calls all from inside the Well Revolution instant messenger.
Do I need to make an appointment?
No appointment is needed with Well Revolution. Start a private chat with a doctor at any time.
What's included with my visit?
A visit with a Well Revolution doctor. The doctor will decide on what care is appropriate for you.
Can I use my health insurance for my visit?
Well Revolution doesn't accept health insurance for visits.
You can submit a claim to your insurance provider for reimbursement, but we can’t guarantee they’ll reimburse you for your chat visit.
If you normally use insurance to pay for your medications, you can do that with medications prescribed through all Well Revolution services. Please talk with your pharmacy directly about insurance coverage.
The cost of medication isn’t included in the cost of your visit.
How do prescriptions work?
The doctor creates and sends paperless prescriptions for you. They will send your prescription to your favourite or nearest pharmacy for the most convenient pick-up location, or you can choose home delivery.
Free Home Delivery: Prescriptions can be sent to our pharmacy partner for convenient, affordable and free home delivery. Many medications are available to you for $24 or less - with or without insurance.
Pick up: Your out-of-pocket medication costs will depend on your insurance and where you decide to get your prescription filled.
