A few questions...

[RD25]

I have been on doxycycline for about a year for acne related issues.  Last week, I woke up with some chest pain.  I've experienced this type of pain before when I initially went on the doxycycline and stopped using it per my physician.  About a week later, the pain went away.  So, I did the same thing this time and my doctor prescribed Nexium for the pain.

I've been on the pill for about 4 days and have not used the doxycycline since last Sunday.  On Saturday, I ate lunch (that's when the pain is the worst).  I started to get some pretty strong chest pains afterwards.  I went to an Urgent Care center and they sent me to the hospital.  They said it was acid reflux and gave me a "drink" with Lydocain and Tylenol.  That immediately made the pain go away.  They said to stay away from spicy foods, acohol, etc. and stay on the Nexium until it went away.

Right now, I feel much, much better.  However, I went to my physician for a follow up today and he wanted to get some tests done (UGI, Barium Swallow, sonogram of abdomen) to rule out ulcers and the such.  My diet has changed significantly in the past week and I have also been on the Nexium.  Yesterday, I noticed my stool was green in color.  Really green.  Same with today.

My question is: is it possible that the green stool is related to my changing in diet and/or the Nexium use?  Or could it be related to some sort of other problem.  Bacterial problem in my esophagus?

I'm a little worried about this.  I'm anxious about the tests that are going to be performed next week and, I suppose, I'm wanting to prepare myself for anything.  I'm in good health.  I don't smoke and I exercise regularly.  I'm fairly concerned because I'm only 27 years old.

My chest pain has really diminished since I started the Nexium and the ER visit.

Any advice is greatly appreciated.

Thanks in advance.

[Kevin Pho, MD]

Doxycycline can be associated with "pill esophagitis" - resulting in erosions in the esophagus - especially if it hasn't been taken with water.  

Normally stopping the medication should result in appropriate healing.  Nexium is fine too.

I am not aware of the green stool being associated with Nexium use.  The change in diet may lead to a change in stool color.

In any case, you can consider an upper GI series or upper endoscopy for further evaluation.  The latter test is a more comprehensive study.

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.
Medical Weblog:
kevinmd_b

[Biskie2]

Have you been eating alot of salad/green leafy vegetables or had any food coloring in your meals (popsicles, etc.)? Soemtimes if your emptying is slowed down, it can make your poop green.