Chest pain.....

Hi,
Hoping you can answer a question for me.  My mom gets chest pains sometimes.  (she has had her heart checked out, everything is okay there).  She does have alot of problems with her stomach, not being able to take different medications, etc.  Her doctor has said these chest pains can come from reflux. My question is, can this Acid reflux be triggered from stress?  And if so, what can be done to alleviate the pain as its happening?  I'm hoping there is something other than "more medication" she can do.
Thanks for your advice,
Mary

[Ratnakar Kini, MD]

Hi mary03,
Though stress as such do not cause acid reflux by itself, it can worsen the symptoms of acid reflux.

Confirmation of GERD is with 24 hours pH monitoring.

Treatment-
1. PPI twice a day immediately before meals for 4-6 weeks
2. Life style modifications -
1. Head elevation while sleeping
2. Small frequent meals
3. Going to bed 2- 3 hours after food
4. Avoiding bed time snacks
5. Avoiding smoking and alcohol
6. Avoiding tight fitting clothes
7. Avoiding cola, citrus drinks, carbonated drinks, tea, coffee, spicy food
8. Weight reduction

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The information provided is for patients’ education only and is not a medical advice. Always consult your personal physician for complete evaluation of your health problem.
- Ratnakar Kini M.D.