[46F] Experiencing GERD and vasculitis with additional symptoms

What might be happening

Based on the information you provided, the following conditions might be considered:

• Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): This condition occurs when stomach acid frequently flows back into the tube connecting your mouth and stomach (esophagus). This backwash (acid reflux) can irritate the lining of your esophagus. Your symptoms of heartburn and feeling like food is stuck in your throat are common symptoms of GERD.

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

• Vasculitis: This is inflammation of your blood vessels. It can cause changes in the walls of your blood vessels, including thickening, weakening, narrowing, and scarring. These changes can restrict blood flow, resulting in organ and tissue damage. The rash on your lower legs might be a symptom of this condition.

  • Treatment is directed toward reducing the inflammation of the vessels and preventing further damage. This often involves corticosteroids and other immune-suppressing medications.

• Lipomas: The lumps under your skin might be lipomas, which are soft, fatty lumps that grow under the skin. They're noncancerous and are usually harmless. The cause of lipomas isn't fully understood, but they tend to run in families.

  • Treatment usually isn't necessary unless the lipoma is bothersome. If that is the case, it can be removed with surgery.

What you can do

1. For GERD, avoid foods and drinks that trigger your heartburn (such as fatty or fried foods, tomato sauce, alcohol, chocolate, mint, garlic, onion, and caffeine). Eat smaller meals and avoid eating 2–3 hours before bedtime. If you're overweight or obese, try to lose weight — even a small amount of weight loss can help relieve your symptoms.

2. For the rash, try not to scratch it as this can make it worse and could lead to infection. Keep the area clean and apply a moisturizer or over-the-counter corticosteroid cream if it's itchy.

3. For the lumps, keep an eye on them. If they grow, change shape, become painful, or you notice more lumps, see your doctor.

What you should look out for

• If your GERD symptoms worsen or don't improve with lifestyle changes and over-the-counter medications, see your doctor. Also seek immediate medical attention if you have chest pain, especially if you also have shortness of breath, or jaw or arm pain. These may be signs of a heart attack.

• If your rash worsens, spreads, or is accompanied by other symptoms such as fever, joint pain, or muscle aches, see your doctor.

• If your lumps grow, change shape, become painful, or you notice more lumps, see your doctor.

Please remember that while I strive to provide accurate and helpful health information, this advice is intended to be general in nature, and specific causes may not be covered. Always consult with a healthcare provider for appropriate examinations, treatment, testing, and care recommendations.