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Anxiety: chest and arm pain with reflux

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Posted 1/18/2014 9:49 AM (GMT 0)
Was in the ER yesterday because I have had chest and arm pain the past few days accompanied with reflux - I'm so sick of it the pain is causing more anxiety I am also feeling nauseous and coughing - I keep burping - I just took a Xanax and I am also on Zantac - I seriously would have anxiety if I didn't have these chest pains - so tired of it - any advice
Posted 1/18/2014 11:15 AM (GMT 0)
Hi Delphyned,
Welcome to the forum. I joined only a few hours ago and have already found some help. I hope you do too.

If you mix a tablespoon of Maalox and a tablespoon of Pepto bismol (or their generics), then you may get the relief I did from a similar experience.

Pls let me know if you want to hear more or if you already have info on what is causing yours. My first problem was my gall bladder. This was found after 7 months and 5 ER visits with what I called my "pretend heart attacks". The did an EKG every time. My heart is fine.

I made it through several months of this and managed to get a little sleep here and there, just yell if I can help. Either way, I hope you get the relief you need very soon. : ) Hang in there.
Posted 1/18/2014 11:40 AM (GMT 0)
Have you been seen by a Gastroenterologist (GI doctor)? In addition to prescribing relevant medication at the necessary dose, and ordering tests, they can also suggest lifestyle changes. (See below).

If you have reflux, and it is as problematic as you say, you should find a diet appropriate for such a condition, usually smaller portions (eaten more often) of food neither high in fat, protein, or acidic qualities, such as tomato sauce.

I had reflux, I had to avoid caffeine totally, no coffee, and no soft drinks with caffeine. Even carbonated soft drinks without caffeine can be a problem since they pressurize the stomach and can promote reflux. Also, I was not allowed anything by mouth, no food or even water, 3 hours before bedtime. I had to take Protonix (proton pump inhibitor PPI, similar to Prilosec) at a prescription level dose for a few months before mine went away.

Unfortunately, the TV Ads for some of these stomach medications show them being taken for relief, telling the viewer that they require changes in eating habits to be most successful, then show the person taking the medication at a restaurant eating all the foods they suggested you avoid.

My wife just added that it would probably be appropriate to see a cardiologist to confirm that your heart is not a factor, I fully agree.
Posted 1/18/2014 11:40 AM (GMT 0)
They did a blood test I think for my gall bladder - how did you have your checked?
Posted 1/18/2014 11:45 AM (GMT 0)
I had not had pop caffeine or anything like chocolate even when this all started 7 months ago- I have discovered a few months ago that I had allergies to gluten, egg and dairy so I have been free from that for 2 months, I only drink water and that's it. and was doing really good them all of a sudden the reflux has started acting up and I'm having major anxiety in the morning due to it. Thank you for advice
Posted 1/18/2014 12:12 PM (GMT 0)
Hi Delphyned,
Can you think of anything you did differently 7 to 10 months ago??
In the meantime, it helps me to try to sleep in fully upright sitting position - either on the couch or at the head of the bed with pillows. I sleep with several pillows, however the most important part - - is to have the head of the bed raised 4 to 6 inches. The incline works to help the body's attempt to keep stomach acid from traveling up the esophagus, throat, mouth...
I fully agree with Jungl Rulz, the proper medication will help get things back in balance for you. Protonix 40 mg works for me - - and it did take about 6 weeks for that to give significant benefit. So...if the Dr thinks medication is needed, you have a bit of time between now and then to try a few non-Rx ideas.
My first apt with the Gastroenterologist, he scheduled an ultrasound of my abdomen. This showed the gall bladder and stones. Just in case it becomes relevant for you, you may want to look for a medical video/pic of a normal gall bladder ultrasound and one with stones/other issues.
Also, I use what I call a 5 smart people plan for researching symptoms, conditions, etc to try to avoid the sites that might include a little less than accurate information. I use Mayo Clinic, Johns Hopkins, National Institutes of Health, CDC, and a home remedy site ... simple-remedies.com
With having several conditions, I'm on a ton of medications. So I take advantage of the home remedies where I can. Ask whatever you like, I'm glad to share in case some detail helps in some way. : )
Posted 1/18/2014 11:31 PM (GMT 0)
Hello and welcome.

I am sorry that you are going through this currently. We have a few members that deal with both anxiety and GERD/gastro issues.

It is best treated with a two pronged approach. So taking the advice of seeking a specialist is a good step...

...as well as trying to lower the anxiety that is a result (or is it the cause, hard to tell!) and certainly adds to the problem.

Here is a link to our Resources. In it you will find instructions to stress lowering exercises that may really help to reduce your anxiety and symptoms.



https://www.healingwell.com/community/default.aspx?f=9&m=104206

Checking in with our GERD forum is also an idea that you might consider.

Wishing you the best, and post anytime.

Scaredy Cat

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