Sign up now for 'Innovative Treatments for GERD'

Barrington, IL – Fifteen million people across the United States suffer from gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) which, if left untreated, has the potential to lead to esophageal cancer. GERD is a condition in which the stomach contents leak backwards from the stomach irritating the esophagus. Heartburn is the most common symptom of GERD, with other symptoms including chest pain, swallowing difficulties, cough, asthma and laryngitis.

While there are ways to manage GERD through medications and surgery, doctors at Advocate Good Shepherd Hospital are now offering innovative treatments which do not require an incision. New as well as traditional treatment methods will be discussed on March 20 from 6:30-8 pm at Advocate Good Shepherd Hospital by George Atia, MD, board-certified gastroenterologist, and Hsin-Yi Chang, MD, general surgeon.

“Most people can manage the discomfort of heartburn with simple lifestyle changes and over-the-counter medications and antacids but for people with GERD these remedies may offer only temporary relief,” says Dr. Atia. “The newer more innovative treatments for GERD are incisionless and can get patients back to work and normal activities much quicker.”

The lecture, Innovative Treatments for GERD, is free and will take place in the Prairie Room at Advocate Good Shepherd Hospital, 450 W. Highway 22 in Barrington. A light meal will be provided. Space is limited so sign up today by calling 1.800.3.ADVOCATE (1.800.323.8622) and mention class code 3N27 or go to www.advocatehealth.com/gshp, click on “I need a class or support group” and type the class code in the keyword box.

About Advocate Good Shepherd Hospital

Advocate Good Shepherd in Barrington, Illinois is a 169-bed acute care hospital with more than 700 physicians representing 50 medical specialties. It is part of Advocate Health Care, named one of the Top Ten hospital systems in the U.S. by Thomson-Reuters. Advocate Good Shepherd Hospital is ranked highest in Illinois for quality and patient safety according to Blue Cross Blue Shield's 2011 Blue Star Report™. Advocate is a faith-based organization that exists to serve its communities. In 2010, Advocate provided more than $474,000,000 in charity care and services to its communities. For more about Advocate Good Shepherd Hospital: www.advocatehealth.com/goodshep