How long to develope Gerd with estrophageal stricture (estimate)

Doctor,  While I was in the Marine corp i started having symptoms with heartburn.  I self medicated with over the counter medicastions tums, alka seltzer ect.  After I got out of the Marines the symptoms progressed.  SIX months after discharge I was diagnosed with Dysphasia, estrophageal strcture.  My symptoms at that time were intense heartburn, pain in my arm /shoulder, and food being lodged in my esophagus.  I then had surgury consisting of a baloon dilation esophagogastoduodenscopy.  The surgury report noted erosive hyperemia of the distal esophagus.  I was diagnosed with esophageal ring stricture.  All of this occured with in one year of service.  Today I am still on medications (protonix daily) and restricted diet in order to maintane and control of my GERD.  Currently I am trying to establish a time frame in order to file a VA claim for disability.  The VA reconizes chronic diseases which are diagnosed and develope within one year of discharge. Therefore, I am pursuing any and all messures to understand my conditioon as much as possible.  I understand that GERD can develope overtime, however do you think based on my sittuation of severity with the esophageal stricture my condition was more  likley than not present while in the Marines?
Thanks for your assistance.

[Kevin Pho, MD]

Difficult to speculate without evaluation.

The time course of an esophageal stricture can vary by patient.  Normally they develop over time.  Because of this, it is possible that it was present during the time you spent in the Marines.  

Normally esophageal strictures are dilated endoscopically - but they can recur.

The GERD can be further evaluated with a 24-hr pH study.  If the Protonix is not helping with the discomfort, surgical therapy can be considered.  

These options can be discussed with a GI consultation.

Followup with your personal physician is essential.

This answer is not intended as and does not substitute for medical advice - the information presented is for patient education only. Please see your personal physician for further evaluation of your individual case.

Kevin, M.D.
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