Worried abour GERD and cancer

Im 30 years old - used to smoke between 10-20 cigarettes a day for about 10 years, some unfiltered roll-ups, but gave up in 2006.  I also drank alcohol when younger, but rarely drink it now.  About 1 year ago I started getting burning pain in my stomach (just below where ribs meet) but ONLY immediately after swallowing fatty and salty food like fries and pizza, as well as drinks like coffee and whisky.  I could not find a medical condition to go along with these symptoms, and I was very busy with work and having a new baby, so I just carried on without going to the doctor.  About 5 weeks ago I finally went to the doctor.  They said gastritis and prescribed Lanzoprazole.  I didnt notice any difference with meds as had stopped eating and drinking the things that caused my stomach pain.  However, had a few bouts of regurgitation after eating spicy food.  But in the last 3 weeks I have had bad and constant acid reflux (24/7) into my mouth, which has not been helped despite changing my medication to Nexium for the last two weeks.  My food is increasingly getting stuck in my lower esophagus, and also when I swallow I am starting to get pain in my chest and back.  If I lie down at all the acid just flows up into my mouth.  I also have a little pain under my jaw and a swollen bean-shaped lump and I'm not sure if I'm imagining it but I think I can feel all the lymph nodes in my right armpit.  I am terrified that I have cancer like esophageal or stomach cancer, and I have read that lung cancer can start with dysphagia and reflux. I also read that bulimia is linked to esophageal cancer, and I have been bulimic for some years on and off until recently. I also like to drink hot drinks which is linked to this type of cancer. Doctor not worried becaused I'm young, but Im getting panic attacks and constant worry as I have a new baby and partner that I love. Am getting an upper GI endoscopy, but it could take months, and I dont know if I can cope with the fear in the mean time.

[Ratnakar Kini, MD]

Hi,
Though long term GERD can cause Barrett's esphagus which in turn can lead to esphageal cancer, you are too young and it is unlikely that you have it. Same with lung cancer. Endoscopy may be done. Since you said it may take months, you can have  barium swallow test done for evaluation.

[gobbolino]

Hi
Thanks for the reply.  I have been worried that my former lifestyle of smoking and drinking will catch up with me.  I am mainly worried because I have the feeling of food being stuck, which has been getting gradually worse recently.  I am finishing a PhD in cell biology so I am also quite stressed, although I have read that stress cannot cause GERD.  I and my doctor are also puzzled as to what could cause stomach pain during a meal of salty food.

Thanks again for the prompt reply.