GERD?

[jinvegas]

I've been having digestive problems for a little over a year now.  At first I thought it was just heartburn & didn't think anything of it.  Over time, it became worse (almost always at night) and six months ago I started taking Zantac to help it.

If I didn't take a Zantac (and especially if I drank alcohol) at night, I often would wake up with a heavy chest ache with my mouth producing lots of saliva.  I would burp constantly and eventually would have convulsing vomiting until my stomach was empty.  (Lots of bile would be vomitted as well.)

Two months ago I went in for a physical (I'm 33), and my doctor told me I was in great shape for my age and wouldn't need to see him again for a couple years.  (He said I was one of the healthiest 33 year olds he'd seen.)  He said that I should just keep taking the Zantac if it was helping...which it normally was.

Last month I noticed I've been having these nighttime bouts more frequently...even if I have taken a Zantac.  Last week I was up 5 nights out of 7.  The bile & acid I'm vomitting is starting to really hurt.

I'm making another appointment, but after searching the internet it seems there are SO many different things this can be.  I'd like to narrow down my possible problems if possible, before I go in so I can be more specific in what I'm describing.

Thanks....

[Arevalo21]

just wondering...does your stomach feel like its burning? i had almost the same symtoms and was treated w/nexium and it calmed it down for a bit however the symptoms came back. my doc suggested to be tested for h.pylori infection which is caused by a bacteria that can give you these symptoms. There are several ways you can be tested for h pylori, i had a blood test that came back in 2-3days and tested positive after 14days of antibiotics it went away although it doesnt always go that fast. the upper GI endoscopy will most certiantly get some answers or determine if you need more tests to be done.

[Ratnakar Kini]

Hi Jinvegas,

Your symptoms are very typical of gastro - esophageal reflux.

Since you have been on zantac for the past six months and as the symptoms are persisting, you need to undergo a few tests.

The tests include -
- Upper gastrointestinal endoscopy
- Intra esophageal pH monitoring
- Esophageal manometry

Depending on what you see in these tests, further treatment can be decided.

Till then you can continue with Zantac or you can try Rabeprazole.
Consult your physician before switching on to the newer medication.

Lifestyle modifications are also needed. Discuss with your physician regarding this issue.
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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.