Heartburn or ???

[Chris126]

I Have had a Heller myotomy done, and several endoscopies, last one Nov 06, which showed nothing all was good. I take Nexium once a day, but still get a burning pain in throat, sometimes in Jaw, and ear. Sometimes will start in back in between shoulders and then into chest. I try taking maalox, and or tums,,,sometimes getting relief within a few min. I was in the hospital last Feb for these symptoms, and Pain on my left side. They did EKG, Blood work, and a stress test ( I passed) and said I did not have a heart attack. They did a hida scan and found that my gall baldder was working at 7 %. Had that out May 07,,,,still getting these syptoms. The hoarsness in the morning has recently showed up also. Do you think all the pain is from acid reflux, or should I have heart work up done....I am sooo confused what all of this is....any suggestions I would welcome

[RALPH44]

Just had my gallbladder out in june been haveing the same problems you have been haveing and I take nexium still get the eat and throat pain. My gastro Doctor said to eat smaller meals I do any way because I feel full all the time. Let me know what your doc. says

[kskort]

Sounds familiar.  I'd like to know what you find out.  It's surprising that the medical knowledge can't more accurately pinpoint what causes a burning sensation in the chest.  

[Chris126]

Hi,,,thank you for your thoughts,,,,,I called my Dr and she had me go in for a ct scan, to look at heart, lungs and where my gall bladder was,,,,,all came back negative( no gallstones) ,,,along with blood work and ekg again. I am going to see what my GI dr thinks, and maybe another endoscopy??? My last one was a yr ago. Still geting some burning feeling in middle of chest from time to time....Ugh!!!! They seem to think Not cardiac but gastric.....?????? I feel like I am going back and forth constantly...Should I def be agressive with the gastric at this point???

[Kevin Pho, MD]

A negative stress test would make cardiac causes less likely.  

Sphincter of Oddi dysfunction is an uncommon condition that may lead to some of the symptoms you describe.  It can occur with higher frequency in those with gallbladders removed.  A Sphincter of Oddi manometry can be considered if this is suspected.  

Hoarseness should be evaluated by an ENT physician and possible laryngoscopy.  

If reflux continues to be suspected, a 24-hr pH study can be done to quantify the severity.

These options can be discussed with your personal physician.

Followup with your personal physician is essential.

This answer is not intended as and does not substitute for medical advice - the information presented is for patient education only. Please see your personal physician for further evaluation of your individual case.

Kevin, M.D.
www.kevinmd.com