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Esophagitis on PPIs?

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Posted 10/27/2020 12:41 PM (GMT 0)
Hello all,

I've been dealing with GERD issues since I was diagnosed with esophagitis in 2012. I've been on and off PPIs - but mostly on, over the past few years. I tried all of them, but the one that worked best for me, was Dexilant 60mg/1x a day. It was working so well, that I was recently considering weaning off of it. But then...earlier this month (after some stressful events) I started having symptoms of esophagitis - feeling like I'm constantly swallowing something, random episodes of heartburn, sore throat, discomfort in chest and even breathlessness. I had a consultation with my ENT, who told me to add Pepcid at bedtime and although it didn't sound serious, he suggested I follow up with my gastroenterologist. I then requested an appointment with her.

I got a call yesterday and saying that my gastroenterologist wanted to schedule me for an endoscopy - stat. That concerned me, as she's usually a bit more "wait and see" when it comes to my symptoms. While I'm glad to get the situation addressed, I'm really scared as to why I'm having these exact symptoms that I haven't had since 2012 - before I was even on PPIs.

Of course I'm also worried about things progressing and getting worse. But two years ago, when I went to a surgical consultation (that I requested) about the Nissen Fundoplication surgery, I was told that all my tests (24hr PH test, barium swallow) were normal and that I didn't qualify.

Has anyone else had symptoms worsen or had esophagitis despite being on PPIs? Did you have to double dose on medication to get it under control? I could really use some reassurance about all of this.

Thanks!
Posted 10/27/2020 1:34 PM (GMT 0)
Hi CoolCat78:

It's not uncommon that stress/anxiety lead to an increase in symptoms, especially during these trying times. I'm not a medical professional, but I'm not sure why she said "Stat," when your symptoms sound common. Try not to stress too much, and remember up until recently you considered weaning off from the Dexilant. Let us know how your endoscopy goes.

Sharon
Posted 10/27/2020 2:04 PM (GMT 0)
Hi Sharon,

Off topic, but....I love your name! That was my mom's name. 🙂

Yes, I hope you're right. These are difficult times, but in addition...I was dealing with family medical issues as well.

I need to find a way to keep stress in check. Although sometimes your body just reacts.

Thank you for reply and your kindness!
Posted 10/28/2020 12:05 AM (GMT 0)
After having issues for years with reflux, I've experienced most of these symptoms at times. A recent unexplained major flare up was sorted out with double-dose PPI, but it took a few weeks and the GP said I really needed a precautionary endoscopy. All as well, but I fully understand your concern while waiting to hear. I'm not medically qualified but much is made of taking PPIs 30-45 min BEFORE breakfast. Oddly the advice for your PPI is different, i.e. that you can take it any time. I find this odd as this is very closely related to lansoprazole. Might be worth checking with GP if you are taking it optimally. Good luck with the endoscopy.
Posted 10/28/2020 1:43 AM (GMT 0)
Hi Genie!

Well, the endoscopy went very well. All was normal! Thankfully! Like you, I get flare ups from time to time...but this one felt really uncomfortable.

She said I can just stay with Dexilant 60mg in the morning and Pepcid AC 20mg at night. She said I can even take an extra 20mg of Pepcid during the day, if it gets bad enough.

I feel much better knowing all of this. But flare ups are no fun, for sure! This one was most likely due to me getting stressed out due to family issues. The body produces more acid in times of stress.
Posted 10/29/2020 3:20 PM (GMT 0)
Fantastic that your endoscopy went well. Congrats.

I also suffer with OCD/anxiety issues, so can relate to being on a PPI (in my case Pantoprozole) and occasionally having reflux-related issues, especially when I'm under stress.

I was diagnosed with Eosinophilic Esophagitis (EOE) last year and have been on Pantoprazole which has made my swallowing issues almost non-existent. They are not exactly sure why, but the PPIs seem to not only help with reflux but also diminish the inflammation and number of eosinophils in the esophagus. After a recent "relapse" with swallowing problems, my doctor suggested it might be the anxiety/stress but also said we might try Dexilant. Overall, you have had a positive experience with it? I was even thinking my body is getting accustomed to Pantoprazole and maybe switching to Dexilant would help me.

Out of curiosity, did she take a biopsy for EOE?
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