How to manage GERD symptoms?

Question

Hello doctor,

For about two weeks now, I have had the sensation of food stuck in my esophagus, accompanied by the feeling of heartburn. Even when I am not eating or drinking and simply swallowing, it feels like food is slowly moving down my throat like a knot.

I am a 44-year-old female and have been a smoker for four years. My weight is 125 pounds. I also started taking Phentermine around the same time when this condition started.

The condition has been chronic with no moments, and feeling better. I am on Phentermine, Cymbalta 60 mg, and Lamictal. I started taking Prilosec and Nexium for approximately five days now with no relief.

I am also in the middle of a very stressful divorce with three small kids and have been experiencing panic and anxiety.

Kindly help.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I read your query and can understand your concern.

The heartburn and globulus sensation in your esophagus are suggestive of gastroesophageal reflux disease.

I recommend you do the following things. These include:

Quitting smoking.
Avoid late meals before sleep.
Sleep with your head slightly elevated.
Avoid spicy and smoked foods.

I also suggest a gastroscopy to assess if there is esophageal inflammation, stenosis, or peptic ulcer disease. If at some point you cannot swallow water, you should see a doctor soon.

I hope this helps.

Thank you.