Posted 12/11/2012 4:51 PM (GMT 0)
I also have very bad gerd along with fibro. I spent many years taking high doses of PPIs such as Nexium and Prilosec, and I would advise you to try to avoid taking these at all costs, or if you are taking them, try to get off of them at all costs. They can cause serious long term side effects, and I now have Osteopenia because of taking them. I have been to the ER twice in the past because of chest pains and tightness like you described. All tests were negative, and they said that it was GERD causing the symptoms.
Several months ago, I elected to quit taking Nexium, and I now take Zantac for my symptoms. I supplement this with Tums if I happen to break through. Although I have had the Nissen Wrap in the past, it has slipped, and I am really needing to have this redone. However, I am trying to put it off, as I live in a small community, and our hospital does not do these. It would mean having to travel to a hospital a couple of hours from here, this is not convenient for us at this point. I have had to make a number of changes in my lifestyle and diet since going off Nexium, most of which I am sure you are familiar with. I have had to totally give up caffeine in any form, tea, coffee, etc. Also, watch OTC medications, as some of these contain it as well. I find that I have to avoid any foods that are spicy, greasy, or contain any tomato based products. This has really cut down on my options for foods that I like. I also have to avoid anything acidic, or at least try to practice moderation. Although everyone is different, I find soda in any form, not just the kinds with caffeine upset my stomach. I have had to take to drinking mainly water, decaf coffee, and herbal tea. I sleep on a wedge pillow with a small memory foam pillow positioned at the very top of it. I also find it helpful to wear clothing that has a looser fit. Anything with a tight waist band is sure to start me to "boiling". I also use organic apple cider vinegar-1 Tbsp. in a cup of warm water with a pinch of baking soda. I drink this several times per day. Even with these precautions, I find it helpful to keep a few Tums everywhere I go. Nearby when I am sleeping, in both vehicles, coat pocket, workout bag, etc. This way, I can get to them quickly if I need them.
As with fibro and many other illnesses, it is helpful to minimize stress as much as possible in or to manage Gerd. I am a very disorganized person, and I find that this causes me a lot of stress. So I try to be as organize what I can. I have tried to cut out the things and people in my life that cause me stress. Getting regular exercise such as walking, water exercise, or yoga is very helpful, and easy on joints and muscles. I am an in-home childcare provider, and I have had to cut back drastically on the number of children that I keep and the amount of hours that I work. It had become too emotionally and physically taxing for me. It has been hard, but I have had to learn to say no to others at times in order to take care of my own well-being.
I hope that you are feeling better. Keep us posted on your progress.