Very worried - possible GERD or heart problems

Hello!  I am very concerned about myself.  I went to the ER 6 weeks ago because of a nagging dull sensation in the middle of my chest.  I have had acid reflux for quite a while.  I've been very stressed for the past 2 years, since my dad died.  I can 't say the pain stays in the middle of my chest, but it seems to jump all over the chest area.  When it gets really bad, the acide reflux begins, like it has never done before!  I'm thinking hiatal hernia.  The ER doctor did bloodwork and an EKG.  Both were OK.  I have a stress test tomorrow and an echo on Monday to rule out heart disease.

Sorry about being so long-winded.  My question is.......can acid reflux/hiatal hernia cause the type of pain I've described.  I'm not sure if the Zantac is making me tired, but something is.  

I know I'm on the right track by getting other heart tests done.  I just want to know about others' experiences with acide reflux/hiatal hernia.

Thank you, Lila

[Ratnakar Kini, MD]

Hi enchilila54,
Acid reflux/ hiatus hernia can cause the type of pain you have mentioned.
After your cardiac evaluation is over, you can consult a gastroenterologist for an upper GI endoscopy and 24 hours pH monitoring for evaluation of the possible GERD/hiatus hernia.
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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.