Belching and Tightness in chest/upper abdomen

[taher]

It's hard to classify this but the above will have to do for a start (I'm 61 years old and in reasonably good health).  About 3 or 4 days ago, (right after I took two cold tablets, doubt that this is related),I begin to have tightness or feeling of bloating in the middle of my chest and upper abdomen.  I was belching a lot.  It wasn't painful so much as uncomfortable.  It seemed to be worse when I laid down.  Since it began, it seems to move around, down to the lower esophagus area/upper abdomen. Belching seems to releave the discomfort somewhat, and I belch a lot, but the general discomfort just comes back.  The entire area of the upper abdomen feels like the next day aftermath of being punched in the stomach, and it's like generally localized soreness . I didn't get hit in the stomach.  When I move into certain positions, I feel the discomfort.  Often when I'm walking, I'm most comfortable.  Anti-acids and indigestion medicine do nothing to help.  Today, I felt some pain for the first time to the left center of my chest.  It went away in a few minutes.  Right now, I seem to feel fine.  

My heart situation?  Four months ago, I had aortic valve replacement surgery (with a tissue valve, no blood thinner needed).  By all accounts, it went perfectly, and I have felt fine ever since.  That is my only health issue, as far as I know.  I don't know if the above is related to the heart  operation.    

I know this is all over the map, but it is the best I can do.  Perhaps you have some ideas. Thanks.

[Kevin Pho, MD]

Although the symptoms sound GI, I certainly would ensure that the heart isn't involved.  You may want to consider a stress test for further evaluation.

If heart disease has been ruled out, GI causes for bloating would include GERD, inflammation of the upper digestive tract, and ulcers.  An upper GI series or an upper endoscopy (the latter test would be more comprehensive) should be considered.  I would also obtain a blood test looking for H Pylori.  

If the tests are negative, you may want to consider more specialized testing, like a gastric emptying scan looking for gastroparesis or a 24-hr pH study further evaluating for GERD.

You may want to discuss these options 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.
Medical Weblog:
kevinmd_b

[nan137]

A related discussion, difficult breathing was started.