GERD & Acid Reflux Treatment in Scottsdale & Phoenix
Natural, Root-Cause Healing for Lasting Relief
Dr. Dan Wool, NMD | Arizona-licensed Naturopathic Physician | Gastroenterology & Hormone Specialist | 8+ Years Experience
Comprehensive GERD Treatment that Addresses Root Causes
What is Acid Reflux? Acid reflux and GERD cause uncomfortable burning sensations in the esophagus and throat that can significantly impact your quality of life. Common symptoms include heartburn, chest tightness, difficulty swallowing, lump sensation in throat, dry cough, sour stomach, regurgitation, and hoarse voice — all usually worse after eating or lying down.
As a naturopathic doctor specializing in gastroenterology, I provide evidence-based testing and treatment protocols that go beyond symptom management to address the underlying factors driving acid reflux and GERD.
Acid reflux is often mismanaged with long-term medications that suppress symptoms while ignoring root causes. Through comprehensive assessment, advanced testing, and personalized natural therapies, we can identify what's truly causing your reflux and create a treatment plan using dietary interventions, herbal protocols, gut restoration, and lifestyle modifications.
Why Our Approach to Acid Reflux Is Different. My approach focuses not just on reducing symptoms, but on preventing recurrence by identifying and correcting the root causes — such as gut barrier dysfunction, SIBO, food sensitivities, low stomach acid, or hiatal hernia — that allowed GERD to develop in the first place.
We serve patients throughout the entire Phoenix metropolitan area including Scottsdale, Fountain Hills, Paradise Valley, Mesa, Gilbert, Tempe and Chandler. Virtual tele-health consults are available for patients throughout Arizona.
If you want to find out more about Dr. Dan Wool's approach to Acid Reflux & GERD, book your free Discovery Call today!
Dr. Wool's GERD Treatment Philosophy
Root Cause Focus
Acid reflux is a symptom, not a root cause. Identifying why it developed — whether from SIBO, hiatal hernia, food sensitivities, stress, or low stomach acid — prevents recurrence and ensures lasting results beyond symptom suppression.
Test, Don't Guess
Accurate testing for H. pylori, food sensitivities, nutrient deficiencies, and digestive function ensures we're treating the right condition with the right protocol, avoiding trial and error.
Herbal First
Herbal and nutritional approaches support your body's healing without the side effects and long-term complications of acid-suppressing medications that can worsen digestive function over time.
Personalized Protocols
While the diagnosis may be the same, every patient got there differently. You'll receive a customized treatment plan based on your test results, symptoms, health history, and individual factors.
DO ANY SOUND FAMILIAR?
What are the main types of Acid Reflux?
Not all acid reflux is the same. Understanding your specific type helps guide treatment
GERD (Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease)
The chronic form of acid reflux where stomach contents regularly flow back into the esophagus, causing persistent symptoms and potential complications.
• Frequent heartburn (2+ times per week)
• Nighttime symptoms
• May cause esophageal damage
• Requires comprehensive treatment
GER (Gastroesophageal Reflux)
The episodic form of reflux that occurs occasionally, often triggered by specific foods, large meals, or lying down after eating.
• Occasional heartburn
• Triggered by specific factor
• Usually less severe
• Responds well to lifestyle changes
LPR (Laryngopharyngeal Reflux)
Also called "Silent Reflux" — when stomach contents regurgitate high enough to affect the throat and larynx, often without typical heartburn symptoms.
• Throat tickle or lump sensation
• Chronic cough
• Hoarse voice
• Post-nasal drip feeling
Hiatal Hernia
A condition where part of the stomach slides through the diaphragm opening, causing reflux symptoms that come and go based on position.
• Positional symptoms
• Abdominal discomfort
• Heartburn when lying down
• May require structural correction
Gastritis
Irritation and inflammation of the stomach lining that can create heartburn symptoms and affect lower esophageal sphincter function.
• Burning stomach pain
• Nausea
• Feeling of fullness
• Often related to H. pylori or NSAIDs
Barrett's Esophagus
A complication of long-term GERD where the esophageal tissue changes in response to chronic acid exposure, requiring monitoring.
• Develops from chronic GERD
• Tissue changes visible on endoscopy
• Requires regular monitoring
• Can be managed naturally with proper care
Acid Reflux Symptoms We Address
Digestive Symptoms
• Heartburn and burning in chest/throat
• Regurgitation of food or sour liquid
• Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia)
• Chest pain or tightness
• Sensation of food stuck in throat
• Nausea after eating
Throat & Respiratory
• Chronic dry cough
• Hoarse voice or voice changes
• Lump sensation in throat
• Frequent throat clearing
• Sore throat
• Worsening asthma symptoms
Related Symptoms
• Bloating and gas
• Sour or bitter taste in mouth
• Bad breath
• Disrupted sleep from nighttime symptoms
• Tooth enamel erosion
• Ear pain or pressure
Comprehensive Acid Reflux Treatment Protocol
Diagnosis & Testing
Comprehensive assessment to accurately identify the root causes of your reflux.
• Detailed health history and symptom analysis
• H. pylori testing (breath, stool, or blood)
• Food sensitivity testing (IgG/IgA panels)
• Comprehensive digestive stool analysis
• Nutrient deficiency assessment
• Endoscopy referrals when indicated
Root Cause Analysis
Identifying the underlying factors driving your acid reflux.
• Digestive enzyme function assessment
• Stomach acid levels (high vs. low)
• Lower esophageal sphincter evaluation
• Dietary trigger identification
• Stress and nervous system assessment
• Structural evaluation (hiatal hernia screening)
Natural Therapeutics
Evidence-based herbal and nutritional protocols that support healing.
• DGL (deglycyrrhizinated licorice) for esophageal healing
• Slippery elm and marshmallow root for mucosa protection
• Digestive enzyme supplementation
• Betaine HCl therapy (when appropriate)
• Gut lining repair protocols
• Peptide therapy considerations (BPC-157)
Dietary Interventions
Personalized nutrition strategies to reduce reflux and support healing.
• Elimination diet protocols
• Trigger food identification and removal
• Acid-reducing meal planning
• Proper portion size guidance
• Meal timing optimization
• Long-term sustainable eating plans
Gut Restoration
Rebalancing gut bacteria to support proper digestive function.
• SIBO testing and treatment if indicated
• Probiotic therapy (strain-specific)
• Prebiotic support (when indicated)
• Dysbiosis correction
• H. pylori eradication protocols
• Microbiome diversity enhancement
Lifestyle Optimization
Practical strategies to reduce reflux triggers and support healing.
• Stress management techniques
• Sleep position recommendations (elevation)
• Weight management support when needed
• Exercise timing and type guidance
• Vagus nerve stimulation exercises
• Mind-body interventions
PPI Tapering Support
Safe protocols for reducing dependency on acid-suppressing medications.
• Gradual reduction schedules
• Rebound acid prevention strategies
• Natural support during transition
• Monitoring and adjustment
• Long-term acid balance restoration
• Digestive function optimization
Maintenance & Prevention
Long-term strategies to maintain relief and prevent recurrence.
• Ongoing dietary strategies
• Supplement maintenance protocols
• Relapse prevention planning
• Regular monitoring schedules
• Lifestyle habit formation
• Stress resilience building
The Wool Method for Reflux Healing
A personalized four-step process to eliminate reflux and restore digestive health
What Conventional Medicine Often Misses with GERD
Conventional Medicine Approach
Primary Focus
Symptom suppression
Main Treatment
PPIs, H2 blockers, antacids
Treatment Duration
Indefinite medication use
Testing Approach
Endoscopy when severe; often symptom-based treatment
Side Effects
Nutrient depletion, increased infection risk, bone loss
Long-term Success
30%+ take meds indefinitely; symptoms recur when stopped
Addresses
Acid levels only
Dr. Wool's Naturopathic Approach
Primary Focus
Root cause resolution
Main Treatment
Herbal protocols, diet, gut healing
Treatment Duration
8-12 week intensive protocol
Testing Approach
Comprehensive testing to identify all contributing factors
Side Effects
Minimal; supports overall health
Long-term Success
85% achieve lasting relief; 90% off PPIs at 1 year
Addresses
Acid levels, gut bacteria, food triggers, stress, structures
Frequently Asked Questions about Acid Reflux & GERD
What causes acid reflux?
Common causes include chronic stress, food sensitivities (especially dairy, gluten, spicy foods), hiatal hernia, paradoxically low stomach acid (hypochlorhydria), imbalanced gut bacteria, SIBO, and chronic inflammation. Dr. Wool uses comprehensive testing to identify your unique triggers for targeted treatment rather than assuming all reflux has the same cause.
Can acid reflux be cured naturally without medication?
Yes. Unlike medications that only suppress symptoms, naturopathic treatment addresses root causes like stress, food sensitivities, hiatal hernia, low stomach acid, poor gut bacteria balance, and inflammation. By correcting these underlying issues, many patients achieve complete, lasting relief without ongoing medication. Our success rate is 85% for patients achieving long-term symptom control naturally.
How long does it take to treat GERD naturally?
Most patients notice initial improvement within 2-4 weeks of starting treatment, with significant relief by 8-12 weeks. The timeline varies based on the severity of your condition, how long you've had symptoms, and the underlying causes. Dr. Wool creates a personalized treatment plan with realistic expectations and milestones for your specific situation.
How is naturopathic treatment different than just taking PPIs or antacids?
While PPIs and antacids neutralize or suppress stomach acid temporarily, naturopathic treatment addresses underlying digestive dysfunction, restores proper acid levels (whether too high or too low), heals esophageal tissue, and rebalances gut flora. This holistic approach resolves the condition long-term rather than creating dependency on medications that may worsen digestion and cause nutrient deficiencies over time.
What if I'm currently taking PPIs — can I stop them?
Yes, but it should be done gradually under proper guidance. Stopping PPIs abruptly can cause rebound acid hypersecretion (worse symptoms). Dr. Wool creates a personalized tapering protocol that supports your digestive system while reducing medication, typically over 4-8 weeks. During this transition, natural therapies help prevent rebound symptoms and restore normal acid production.
Could my acid reflux actually be caused by *low* stomach acid?
Yes, this is more common than most people realize. Low stomach acid (hypochlorhydria) can cause reflux symptoms because incomplete digestion leads to fermentation, gas, and increased pressure that forces the lower esophageal sphincter open. Taking acid-suppressing medications in this case makes the problem worse. We test stomach acid levels to determine whether your reflux is from too much or too little acid.
What foods should I avoid with acid reflux?
Common trigger foods include coffee, alcohol, chocolate, mint, citrus fruits, tomatoes, spicy foods, fatty/fried foods, and carbonated beverages. However, triggers vary by individual. Through food sensitivity testing and elimination protocols, we identify your specific triggers rather than using a generic list. Some patients react to dairy or gluten, while others don't.
Is acid reflux related to SIBO or other gut conditions?
Yes, frequently. SIBO (Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth) can cause or worsen acid reflux through gas production and increased intra-abdominal pressure. Intestinal permeability, IBS, chronic constipation, and gut dysbiosis are also commonly associated with GERD. Treating these underlying conditions often resolves reflux symptoms.
Will I need an endoscopy?
Not necessarily. Endoscopy is useful for diagnosing complications like Barrett's esophagus, severe esophagitis, or ruling out other conditions, but it's not required for all acid reflux cases. Dr. Wool will recommend endoscopy if you have alarm symptoms (difficulty swallowing, unintentional weight loss, bleeding) or haven't responded to initial treatment. For most patients, comprehensive functional testing provides the information needed.
How much does natural acid reflux treatment cost?
Our Scottsdale practice is cash-pay. Initial comprehensive consultation is typically $595, with testing costs varying based on which tests are needed (usually $300-$800 total). Follow-up visits and treatment protocols are customized to your needs. We can provide superbills for insurance reimbursement. Most patients find that investing in root-cause treatment saves money long-term by eliminating ongoing medication costs and preventing complications.
Learn more about Acid Reflux/GERD
What to Expect on Your
Acid Reflux Journey
Ready for Acid Reflux/GERD Relief?
Book Your Free Discovery Call Today!
With caring, patience and a comprehensive approach, Dr. Dan Wool is the best naturopathic doctor in Scottsdale, AZ to treat Acid Reflux & GERD. We serve patients throughout the entire Vally of the Sun including Scottsdale, Paradise Valley, Fountain Hills and Mesa and across the state of Arizona via tele-health. Schedule a free 15 minute consultation online today.