Esophogeal Spasms

[Elsie1913]

I have what has been diagnosed as esphogeal spasms but only during sleep.  Every night for 7 years I have been awakened from 2 to 8 or so times with pain in the middle of my chest that lasts about 30 to 60 seconds.  I take Omepresol for Gerd and also have acid breakthrough at night.

The specialist tell me there is nothing they can do for my night time problems.  I find this difficult to understand with such state of the art medical treatments in our country.

Does anyone know of possible treatment?

[selmaS]

and Bamajoe-
Yes Bama...not eating can also cause a rise in acid or a way to use what is already there.The acid is there to break down the foods, and if u do not have ne to break down I believe it will bother u more. So it is best not to skip meals.
Just MHO.

"selma"

[Bamajoe]

I am thinking I get the esphogeal spasms they are very scary and frustrating. I have started taking what is called a gi cocktail. It seems to help when they are really bad. I had them really bad today at work and the gi cocktail did not help much. I did not eat breakfast. I suffered all morning. They stopped after I ate lunch. So I am thinking if you don't skip meals it might help too.

[selmaS]

I am sorry that nothing on the list is helping.
May I ask, how do u take ur PPI?......how many a day, how long have u been taking them?

When was the last test u had to check on the amount of acid in ur system?

"selma"

[Elsie1913]

Thanks for responding to my situation.  I have tried everything on your list to no avail.

I am not over weight, don't smoke, take a proton pump inhibator, never eat after our evening meal, etc.  I've elevated the bed, etc.

The first spasm occurs within 45 minutes of dozing off even if I have fallen asleep sitting up in a chair.  

The only relief I have had was 3 years ago when I had my gallblader out.  For 5 nights afterward I was spasm free.  My physician says it was because I still had surgery medication in my system and I took pain medication for a couple of days.

Oh well, I guess I could have worse problems.

[selmaS]

HI and welcome to the forum. I am so sorry to hear you are frustrated by your condition and your drs.
I can not give u medical advice, but I can give you suggestions to help abate your symptoms.

Since you have your issues at night I suggest u try elevating your bed, and do not eat at least 3 hours prior to going to bed...if u still have symptoms try 4 hrs ect.


Lifestyle changes. Diet modifications.
Medications to reduce stomach acid or to promote normal motility.
These can include Proton Pump Inhibitors, Histamine Receptor Antagonists, and over-the-counter remedies. (like prilosec)
Eat smaller, more frequent meals.
Limit your intake of acid-stimulating foods and beverages.
Don't lie down for about two hours after you eat. ( or more depending if it persists with the 2 hr min change)
Elevate your head a few inches while you sleep
(approx 6")
Maintain a reasonable weight.
Don't smoke.
Don't drink alcohol.
Don't wear belts or clothes that are tight fitting around the waist
Keep a record.
Record what triggered your acid reflux episodes, the severity of each episode, how your body reacts, and what gives you relief. The next step is to take this information to your doctor so the both of you can determine what lifestyle changes you will need to make and what treatments will give you maximum relief.

Good luck
"selma"