[22F] Experiencing frequent heartburn and difficulty swallowing

What might be happening

Based on the information you've provided, the most likely diagnoses include:

• Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): This is a condition where stomach acid frequently flows back into the tube connecting your mouth and stomach (esophagus). This acid reflux can irritate the lining of your esophagus, causing heartburn. Your mention of heartburn occurring multiple times a week for several months, and difficulty swallowing, are common symptoms of GERD.

  • Treatment typically involves lifestyle modifications, such as avoiding certain foods and drinks, not eating before bedtime, and elevating the head of your bed. Over-the-counter or prescription medications may also be recommended by your doctor.

• Peptic Ulcer Disease: This is a condition where sores develop on the lining of your stomach, upper small intestine or esophagus. Heartburn is a common symptom, but you would also typically experience stomach pain, bloating, and nausea.

  • Treatment typically involves medications to decrease stomach acid, allowing the ulcer to heal.

• Esophageal Stricture: This is a narrowing of the esophagus which can cause difficulty swallowing. It's often caused by conditions that damage the esophagus, such as GERD.

  • Treatment typically involves procedures to widen the esophagus or medications to manage the underlying condition causing the stricture.

What you can do

It would be best to consult a doctor about your symptoms so that they can provide a formal assessment and order relevant tests if necessary. In the meantime, you can try the following to relieve your symptoms:

1. Avoid foods and drinks that trigger your heartburn. Common triggers include fatty or fried foods, tomato sauce, alcohol, chocolate, mint, garlic, onion, and caffeine.
2. Try to eat smaller meals.
3. Avoid lying down after a meal. Wait at least three hours.
4. Elevate the head of your bed if you regularly experience heartburn at night or while trying to sleep.
5. Don't smoke, and if you're overweight, strive for a healthy weight.

What you should look out for

Reasons to see a doctor more urgently:

• If you experience severe chest pain, especially if accompanied by shortness of breath, jaw or arm pain. These could be symptoms of a heart attack.
• If you have difficulty swallowing.
• If you're vomiting blood or your stools are bloody or black.
• If you're experiencing persistent nausea or vomiting.
• If your heartburn symptoms persist despite lifestyle changes and over-the-counter medications.

Please remember that while I strive to provide accurate information, I'm not a doctor and this advice should not replace a consultation with a healthcare professional.