Why is my GERD worse, even with water and mild foods?

Question

Hello doctor,

I am a 42-year-old woman with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), and recently, I have developed a sensitivity to spicy and acidic foods that never bothered me before. Even drinking plain water sometimes feels like it worsens my heartburn. I have also noticed mild swelling in my abdomen. Could this indicate a worsening of my GERD or an additional condition like gastritis or irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)? What dietary or medical changes would you recommend?

Kindly help.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I read your query and can understand your concern.

I am very sorry about your medical condition and I am glad that you are paying attention to changes in your body system. But do not worry. I am here to take care of you.

Regarding your symptoms, I believe you have developed a gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) that is non-compliance with basic home treatment. GERD occurs when a recently injected food fails to digest and absorb down the stomach instead, it returns to the chest and causes symptoms. The abdominal swelling is due to accumulated gas that occurs from coexisting gastritis, you have with GERD. Please do a urea breath test and reply to me with the result.

I advise you to do the following things:

Capsules of Omeprazole (proton pump inhibitor) 40 mg to be taken orally, twice per day for one week.
Syrup Gaviscon (Aluminum hydroxide, Magnesium carbonate) 20 ml orally, three times a day for two weeks.

Kindly consult a specialist doctor, talk with them, and take medications with their consent.

I hope this helps.

Thank you.