chasing symptoms

I have been experiencing these GI symptoms for about a month

My stomach feels full continuously.  I feel a presence in my esophagus.  My tongue is coated (looks like growth in  a petri dish).  I don't get ACID reflux, but it feels like something is  backing up  I have upper abdominal pain.

I was treated last year for H. pylori, but recent tests show no rei-nfection.  Also, negative tests for giardia.  I have lower intestinal cramping until the daily movement.

My doctor is beginning to chase symptoms.  A friend of mine died last year because her doctor only chased symptoms.

I see my doctor on 3-3-03.  I need help convincing him to take a more aggressive approach.

I'm not afraid of him,he is very good to our family, but I need to convince him to pay more attention to this.

As a matter of note, After 15 years of mild neurological symptoms, I have recently been diagnosed with MS.  I experience no immediate reactions to the Avonex.  I have been using it for only two weeks.    Liver tests have yet to be performed.

[Kevin Pho, MD]

Hello - thanks for asking your question.

Feeling a "presence" in your esophagus absolutely needs further workup with either a gastroscopy (preferred) or a barium swallow.  

There are multiple causes that can cause this symptom, which should be discussed with your personal physician.  These include benign tumors, caustic esophagitis/stricture, diverticula, malignancy, peptic esophagitis/stricture, esophageal rings/webs, achalasia, esophageal spasm, scleroderma or functional dysphagia to new a few.  

A gastroscopy or barium swallow will help in the diagnosis.  The appropriate treatment will depend on what is found.  

I strongly suggest follow-up with your personal physician or gastroenterologist.  

I stress that this answer is not intended as and does not substitute for medical advice - please see your personal physician for further evaluation of your individual case.

Thanks,
Kevin, M.D.