Somach Problems

I am 28 years old, exercise, dont do drugs, drink or smoke.  18 months ago I had a scope and was diagnosed with LPR/Gerd.  I started with prilosec first 1 per day then 2 then went to aciphex first 1 per day then 2.  Then due to side effects, went back to prilosec 1 per day.  I was fine for 9 months. I actually began to slack on the prilosec. I did not always remember to take it and I did not take it far enough away from meals, taking it sometimes while I was eating.

In July, I developed some headaches and used 3 to 4 ibuprophen 2 to 3 times a day.  My stomach developed a deep ache and I had an acid taste in my mouth,  My family doc. changed me aciphex  first 1 per day then 2 then we went to prevacid.  

My stomach burns when I eat and sometimes when empty, it gets pains and has periods of nausea and I burp alot.  I went to the ER today and had a scan of my liver, gall bladder and pancreas, which were fine.  Also, bloodwork said that liver is functioning properly.  I will be seeing my GI in 3 days.  My questions are:

Is it possible to develop and ulcer or gastritis from the ibuprophen even though I was on prilosec?

Is it possible that I am having these problems because I was not taking the prilosec properly causing a relapse?

Given my scope one year ago, my age and my symptoms, how likely is cancer?

Thank you.

[Kevin Pho, MD]

Yes, it is possible to have inflammation or an ulcer from the ibuprofen despite the PPI.  

An upper endoscopy as well as a blood test looking for H Pylori is recommended.  

Cancer is less likely with a normal scope a year ago.  If suspected, the scope can be repeated.  

A more definitive test for GERD can be done with a 24-hr pH study.

These options can be discussed with your personal physician.

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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