You're not alone. I've had upper left abdominal pain for over a year on and off. Not sharp, shooting pain, more like a "stitch" that would come and go, but now is there most of the time. I am 52 yo non-smoker, physically active, organic and gluten free. Went to GP a few times and told me to follow up with GI doc. Had upper endoscopy 8 weeks ag. Diagnosed with Silent GERD that apparently I've had for quite some time and didn't know it. I had no other GERD symptoms of regurgitation, heartburn, lump in throat, burning throat, etc. Just that darn pain just below my sternum. I wish I had the other symptoms so I would have gone to a GI sooner. Due to gerd I have erosion in my lower esophogaus that GI is calling "pre" Barrets. I am devastated and miserable. Been on prilosec. Did nothing for me. Now on Dexilant 60 mg 1x day, gluten free diet, acid free diet, and I still have the ab pain and now other side effects from the med.
You are not crazy about feeling "that" pain. I believe I know what you are feeling. I'm sorry if I'm a bit down but I don't know what to do either. I think this forum is a great place. It sounds like people with GERD need to play around with different PPI's until they find the right one. I'm still searching. I'm also going to look for a new GI. When I tried to explain the pain and discomfort I am feeling to the doc, she told me to stay on meds, stay on acid free diet (NO COFFEE, TEA, TOMATOE SAUCE, CHOCOLATE, ALCHOHOL, ETC.) and get some anti-depressants. Hah! I do know we need to reduce our stress levels tremendously with GERD. I'm trying through prayer, meditation, reiki and accupunture. Good Luck to you (and me, too!) I really pray the pain we share goes away.
Heck, I'm praying for everyone on this forum tonite. God Bless you all and may he give us peace and relief :o)