I am a 45 year old male, 6'1", 215 lbs. I have on and off had bowell difficulties for the last 20 years or so. It seemed to start back when I apparently had a bad viral infection in my intestinal trac. Anyway, about 3 weeks ago I noticed I was having upper and lower chest and stomach discomfort along with diarrhea. Last week I finally went to the doc when the pains in my chest got me worried about a heart attack. I saw a PCP and she took a EKG which she said was normal and believed it was GERD or heartburn. She perscribed protonix and told me to take OTC Zantac until it kicked in. It has been 6 days now, and although I feel somewhat better the burning pain and cramps came back. May latest blood test revealed a somwhat high cholesterol(234), LDL (140), and GGT (137). I have been a moderate drinker for some time and although I did fast the night before the blood test I did not abstain from alchohol. I have had nothing to drink for the last 7 days and have watched my diet very carefully. I also had a ultrasound preformed on my lower abdomen last spring because of constant nausea. It came out normal with the exception of sludge in the gallbaldder.
My question is should I wait for another 3-4 weeks to see my doctor or should I go back sooner?
Does it take longer than this period of time for the protonix to work?
Does this sound like heartburn(I have never really had it before)?
Could this problem be related back to the sludge in my gallbladder?
The pain I am currently experiencing is right across my chest, a severe burning feeling with a bit of cramping of my lower stomach area. I sould also mention that I am taking atenolol(sp) for premature atrial beats.