Gerd?Gastritis

Was diagnosed with Gastritis of the Antrum in beginning of December, I was complaining of heartburn which lasted 24 hours a day for about a week. Went on Prilosec, 40mg a day that had no effect. Went on Nexium 40mg 2 times per day, still need to take Pepcid before sleepng to avoid nighttime heartburn, Get occasional heartburn during the day even though I am on nexium. Doctor says they will not do anything for at least a month more. 42 years old, had occasional heartburn an stomach issues (took tagamet to treat maybe 1-2 times per year). Any ideas? Still have heartburn during the day and have been on Nexium for 2 weeks? Could this be stess driven as I have gone through some major life events in the past few months combined with several week of bad diet, too much caffeine and alcohol.

[Ratnakar Kini, MD]

Hi AI2007,
Stress may worsen the symptoms of GERD.

For getting adequte relief from GERD two things are important -

1. PPI
2. Life style modifications -
         - Elevation of the head end of the bed ( use  6- 8 inch blocks)
         - Avoid tight fitting clothes
         -  Weight loss if you are obese
        - Restriction of alcohol and smoking
        - Dietary changes
        - Retiring to bed only after 2 -3 hours after meals
        - Avoiding bed time snacks
        - Avoiding citrus drinks, cola, tea, coffee and spicy foods
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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.

[Al2007]

Ok so I am on PPI 2 times per day at 40mg, Nexium. Symptoms seem to hit about mid afternoon, first stomach pain in upper abdomen (sometimes right to my back), a little while later I will get heartburn sensation. So I am wondering what to watch for in terms of improvement? Less Heartburn flare ups? Less Pain? I also wonder how long a case of Gastritis (which I suppose is causing the GERD) on average lasts in order to heal it? Several weeks or months?
Regards,
Al

[Ratnakar Kini, MD]

Hi AI2007,
You have to watch for a decrease in the frequency of symptoms.
It generally takes 4-8 weeks for complete healing if no significant risk factors are there.
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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.