Stuck burp????

[worriedhypochondriac]

Earlier this year I was diagnosted with mild to moderate gastroesophageal reflux.  This all came about when suddenly one day I felt as though something was stuck in my throat after a scoping done by my ENT by PCP ordered a Barium Swallow test.  According to the results there was mild to moderate gastroesophagel reflux.  It states on the report that the esophagus is normal in appearance without evidence for strictures or masses and no evidence of hiatal hernia.  Currently I have trouble burping.  I get the urge to do so but it doesn't want to come out.  Also I have been having shorteness of breath in which the cardiologist and pulmonologist says everything is okay after numerous tests such as PFT and a heart ultrasound.  I do not know what else is causing the shortness of breath nor do I know why I have such an issue with burping.  Could this be the GERD or cancer that was missed on all of the testings?  Please help.
Any suggestions as to what could be the cause?

Thank you

[Ratnakar Kini]

Hi,
An upper GI endoscopy would be helpful to know whether there is a cancerous lesion in the esophagus.
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The information provided is for patients’ education only and is not a medical advice. Always consult your personal physician for complete evaluation of your health problem.

- Ratnakar Kini M.D.

[worriedhypochondriac]

I forgot to mention that my Barium Swallow test was done in March.  Does that make a difference?  Does this mean that between that time and now I could have gotten cancer?

[Ratnakar Kini]

Hi,
The symptoms you have mentioned are part of GERD.
In 70%, the endoscopy will be normal.
24 hours pH monitoring test should be done to confirm the diagnosis.
PPI along with lifestyle modifications would be beneficial.

Lifestyle modifications -
1. Head elevation while sleeping
2. Small frequent meals
3. Going to bed 2- 3 hours after food
4. Avoiding bed time snacks
5. Avoiding smoking and alcohol
6. Avoiding tight fitting clothes
7. Avoiding cola, citrus drinks, carbonated drinks, tea, coffee, spicy food
8. Weight reduction

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The information provided is for patients’ education only and is not a medical advice. Always consult your personal physician for complete evaluation of your health problem.

- Ratnakar Kini M.D.