[43F] Experiencing acid reflux and muscle contractions

What might be happening

Based on the information you've provided, possible explanations for your symptoms include:

• Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): This is a digestive disorder that affects the ring of muscle between your esophagus and your stomach. This could explain your acid reflux and the feeling of muscle contraction in your esophagus.

  • Treatment typically includes lifestyle changes and over-the-counter medications. In some cases, prescription medications or surgery might be needed.

• Gastritis: This is an inflammation, irritation, or erosion of the lining of the stomach. It can occur suddenly (acute) or gradually (chronic). Gastritis can lead to acid reflux and nausea.

  • Treatment typically involves taking antacids and other drugs to reduce stomach acid, which helps relieve gastritis symptoms and promotes healing.

• Peptic Ulcer: These are sores that develop on the inside lining of your stomach and the upper portion of your small intestine. The most common symptom of a peptic ulcer is stomach pain, but they can also cause acid reflux and nausea.

  • Treatment usually involves medications to decrease stomach acid. If an H. pylori infection is causing your peptic ulcers, you'll need to take antibiotics.

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 can trigger reflux, such as fatty or fried foods, tomato sauce, alcohol, chocolate, mint, garlic, onion, and caffeine.
2. Eat smaller meals.
3. Wait at least three hours after eating before lying down or going to bed.
4. Elevate the head of your bed.
5. Don't smoke, and if you already do, try to quit. Smoking decreases the lower esophageal sphincter's ability to function properly.

What you should look out for

Reasons to see a doctor more urgently:

• If you experience severe chest pain, especially if accompanied by pain in the arm or jaw, or difficulty breathing. These could be symptoms of a heart attack.
• If you vomit blood or your stool is bloody or black.
• If your symptoms persist despite over-the-counter treatments.
• If you have difficulty swallowing.

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.