Health anxiety and GERD

[Jeremy2C]

I am a 39 yr old smoker who has had GERD, IBS and anxiety issues for many years.  I take nexium daily for the GERD and metamucil daily for the IBS.  I am not on any anxiety medication.  About 5 years ago I had an upper GI endoscopy that came back fine.  4 days ago I woke up with terrible pressure in my chest.  I have had this before with my GERD but this was the worst it had ever been.  Since then, the pressure is gone but I have had very strong pains when I swallow or even belch.  Basically anything that stretches my esophagus causes horrible pain.  I am not sure what to do and I can't afford a doctors visit.  Does anyone have any advice?  My anxiety is really starting to kick in and I am beginning to worry about tumors. How long should I wait before I should really worry?

[RubyWitch]

You really need to have an endoscopy done to determine what is going on with your esophagus. The longer you wait, the more at risk you put yourself. If you don't have insurance, along with the millions of other people in this country, I would suggest you visit your local hospital and ask to speak with a social worker, patient advocate and the Financial Office to try and work out a payment plan you can afford. You may also qualify for Medicad or Welfare benefits.
Where there is a will, there is a way.
It's time to get proactive in your own healthcare and waiting until it's "REALLY" time to worry is not such a great idea.
I hope things work out for you.
Peace
Greenlydia

[mammo]

Since acid caused by GERD can erode the esophagus and irritate it, I would see a doctor.  There are clinics in all major cities that charge according to your income.  Be aware that smoking causes both GERD and IBS, not to mention lung cancer and cardiovascular disease.  It would be best to get something to control your anxiety and stop smoking.  Once you stop, your lungs immediately begin to heal themselves, but your cardiovascular damage if forever!  Don't mean to preach but I have a 40 year old nephew who is dying from small cell carcinoma.  This form of lung cancer doesn't present with symptoms until it has already spread.  His was already in his bones, liver and brain before he had a symptom. Good luck and take care!