Acid Reflux

[Traci84014]

I have acid reflux and have a bad problem with shortness of breath.  I have read on-line that acid reflux can cause the shortness of breath, but my doctor says that it doesn't.  I am seeing a specialist so you would think he would know!
I just don't know what to do about it.  I have had to stop walking because of it.  It doesn't matter what I eat, I have trouble breathing afterwards.  I have seen an Asthma specialist who put me on Asthma meds, but they only made my reflux worse.  I don't think it is Asthma since it only occurs after I eat.
Can anyone offer some advise?
Someone on another site advised that it could be panic attacks.  I have had one panic attack and I know that what I'm experiencing is not that.  

PLEASE HELP!!!  :-)

[dianakimlove]

My first symptom was chest pain and trouble breathing so I went to ER thinking it was a heart attack.  They told me it was from acid reflux getting into the lungs.  I was put on an inhaler and it helped relieve the pressure.  I have to use my inhaler on occasion when I feel short of breath.  I agree with Jaybay that you should see someone else if you're not happy.  I found you really have to take your symptoms seriously and push for tests.

[walkingwizard47]

I am a transplant patient and my acid reflux has gotten worse with years of immunosuppresion meds. The " avoid" list is so long that there is nothing much that i can eat. Does anyone has any suggestions? I am already on the highest dose of nexium.

[Jaybay]

Not all docs or specialists are created equally.  They're human just like you.  Get another opinion.  Are you seeing a GI Doc (gastroenterologist)?

In the meantime, try Prilosec OTC (over-the-counter) to treat the reflux symptoms.  It's a proton pump inhibitor that is used to treat GERD (Gastro Esophogeal Reflux Disease).  And yes, you are correct that GERD can cause shortness of breath and cardiac-type symptoms, usually from breathing in minute amounts of stomach reflux acids while you're asleep and unaware.  

Also, try not to eat one blessed thing at least 3 hours before going to bed.  Build up your pillows so that you are on a slight upward slant.  Avoid caffeine and acid-producing foods like tomatoes and citrus fruits.  Basically, you want to look at a very bland diet for a while trying to determine what works for you and what makes things worse.