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New to GERD: pain behind sternum

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Posted 8/4/2009 8:12 PM (GMT 0)
Well, I'm not entirely new to GERD, as i have needed over-the-counter Ranitidine once every night for the last 1 or 2 years to avoid nocturnal reflux. Symptoms only were mild and i had only the acid feeling. However, over the last few days I have felt what feels like more constant pain behind my sternum area, which feels like is my lower esophagus. Sometimes if i have really dry and hard bread, it feels like it scrapes along that area. So on my own will, I boosted my ranitidine dose to 150mg twice a day. i will tell my GI doctor, as I have an appointment in one weeks time. I'd rate the pain from maybe 2/10, which sometimes wanes down to absolutely nothing. So it is mild pain, but it is not feeling exactly like acid reflux. So I am wondering what I might have? maybe an ulcer? or inflammation from past acid reflux? Shouldn't be any sort of cancer, as im 26 years old and i'm under the impression that cancer doesn't usually hurt. I realize the doctor might order an endoscopy, and I also have crohn's so I've had a few colonoscopies too...so i sorta know the feeling of these tests. Any advice on my symptoms anyone? thanks...
Posted 8/4/2009 8:40 PM (GMT 0)
Hi camjames,
Welcome to the GERD forum! You'll get lots of support, information, and encouragement here. We've all been there! I got lots of help here when I was considering GERD surgery (which I ended up having on Feb. 27 of this year). It's a very positive and caring place.

It sounds like you're getting inflammation from the reflux you've experienced. I've had the same feeling before. Sometimes it feels like a lump, and usually when it's bothering me, I have some trouble eating. My stomach feels full really fast, and I can only eat "comfort food"--egg custard, cream soups, yogurt, etc. Be careful with rough foods right now (no popcorn, etc.). Hate to say it, but lay off the alcohol for a bit until it heals (assuming you drink beer, etc...probably not an assumption I should make, but I've got kids!

I agree with your decision to see a GI doc as soon as you can. It's not panic time...as you said, you don't really need to worry about cancer...you just don't want to let it go and set yourself up for it. Don't worry about the endoscopy. It's not that bad...not a favorite thing to do, but the last time I did it without sedation, so if I can do that, you can handle it with sedation. No big deal. I had my first one along with the colonoscopy. A Two-fer!

Good luck, camjames.
I expect lots of people will be along to respond to your post.
You're in a good place...everyone here is very giving and positive--they've "been there", so have a helpful perspective.
Take care,
Denise
Posted 8/4/2009 11:22 PM (GMT 0)

Hello camjames,

Welcome to HealingWell.  I see you have met Denise and you will find she is wise and simply wonderful.  I know others will be along to greet you and offer advice too.

You have made a sound decision in seeking out the care of a GI physician.  Please make a list of all your concerns and sx so when you get to your appointment you won't have to rely on your memory.  I know the first visits can be stressful but you do want answers to what is going on.

Stick with us.

Respectfully

Kitt

Posted 8/4/2009 11:23 PM (GMT 0)
Cam, The endoscope is nothing under sedation. The only thing that bothered me was the IV. It was the first time I ever had one in my wrist, kinda tender. Once they did the injection I knew nothing until I was being woke up by my parents back in the room. No biggy.

Denise, sounds like they searched you from stem to stern :)) I'd think I'd like sedation for that.

Joy
Posted 8/5/2009 3:47 AM (GMT 0)
yes the endoscopy was not that bad of course i was sedated for it and do not remember much of it. I have constant chest pain anda feeling like something is stuck in my throat it has all been related to the adcid reflux . I agree with the others get to the GI doctor and get it checked out.

Denise that is night the kind of twofers I like
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