Exercising

[NYRR]

I suffer from GERD which I take Nexium for.  For the past 3 weeks I've been experiencing some unusual stomach conditions.  I have quite a bit of Flatuance, bloating, cramping, nausea.  My movements appear normal.  Sometimes this occurs at night.  In the past I have had sonograms for Gall Bladder disease which were negative.  Its been a little better the past few days. I have been using Librax on occasion for the cramping.

Now, I go to the gym about 4 days a week which include weights and cario exercising.  Can too much exercising effect the stomach such as the symptoms I just described?

[Kevin Pho, MD]

Before attributing the symptoms to exercise, I would consider a more thorough GI evaluation first.  Your symptoms can also be caused by ulcers, GERD, inflammation of the esophagus or stomach, or irritable bowel syndrome.  

To fully evaluate the upper GI tract, I would consider an upper GI series or upper endoscopy.  A 24-hr pH study can be considered to evaluate for GERD and see if the Nexium is appropriately controlling it.  If not, more aggressive acid-reflux therapies may need to be adopted.

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.

Thanks,
Kevin, M.D.