Can GERD without heartburn cause chest pain and gas?

Question

Hello doctor,

For many years, I have suffered from an intussusception. After a few days in the hospital and fasting, the problem fixed itself. I was released on day five feeling very well. During my stay, I was made aware that I had polyps in the gallbladder and to keep an eye on them. Unfortunately, I do not have insurance and never made a follow-up appointment.

For the last several months, I have been experiencing the worst symptoms of my life, like constant bloating, extreme gas bubbles throughout my chest cavity, major chest pains around my heart area, dry coughing, and a huge lump in my throat. I know the symptoms are associated with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), but I do not have any heartburn.

I am terrified to eat anything, and I have tried Nexium, but it has not helped.

Kindly help.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I have read your query and can understand your concern.

Activated charcoal is generally safe for most adults when used for short periods. However, using it regularly for a long time can lead to severe constipation. In rare cases, it may even cause intestinal blockage, especially if taken in large or repeated doses without medical supervision.

That said, activated charcoal is considered safer than many modern medicines when used correctly and in optimal doses. It works by having tiny pores that increase its surface area, allowing it to adsorb (bind) gases, toxins, and acids in the gut. This makes it useful for reducing bloating, acidity, and flatulence. The usual recommended dose is 50 to 100 grams at one time, and it should not be overused.

To reduce gas and acidity, it is important to make a few daily changes, avoid the following:

Dairy products that contain sugar and lactose cause gas.
Vegetables, including onions, radishes, cabbage, celery, carrots, Brussels sprouts, broccoli, cauliflower, and legumes.
Fruit sugar is especially high in prunes, raisins, bananas, apples, apricots, and fruit juices from prunes, grapes, and apples.
Fiber.
Fatty foods and carbonated drinks.

Eat more fermented foods. These are rich in both good bacteria and enzymes. You can try raw natto kefir or cultured veggies. This is probably one of the most important first steps.

Take a high-quality probiotic.
Exercising helps keep food moving through your system.
Using spices may help to prevent flatulence. These include turmeric, coriander, peppermint, fennel, sage, chamomile, and ginger.
Do not drink juices, as they cause acidity.

Anxiety can stimulate the vagus nerve, leading to excess acid production in the stomach and worsening symptoms. Managing stress is very important. If anxiety is severe, short-term use of an anxiolytic like Lorazepam (Benzodiazepine) once daily for a few days.

Since your symptoms are persistent, a planned endoscopy is advisable to rule out conditions like gastritis or peptic ulcer disease.

Follow whatever I suggested, and you will feel better in two to four weeks.

I hope this helps.

Kindly revert in case of further queries.

Thank you.