Acid reflux reviews: Personal Stories – About GERD

30.07.202316.06.2023 by alexxlab

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Personal Stories – About GERD

Share your experience of living with a digestive disorder – it can be therapeutic for you as well as others who suffer.

Whether you or a family member has a disorder, we invite you to view more stories or share your own.

I am 28 years old and I have been living with IBS for over 10 years. It has not been easy and finding a good

Hello guys, my name is Bianca and i’m 19 years old atm, i am struggling with this problem since i was 14 so for about

I began to to excess acid in m stomach about twelve years ago with just occasional acid reflux. The symptoms went away while I continues

I am not one to typically do this but this has been a major trial for me and I was able to overcome it so

I have heartburn sometimes and I don’t take medicine because of side effects. I suggest people take celery juice and cucumber juice. You will get

I was strolling on the internet one night. Looking for home remedies for GERD & gastritis. I have suffered from acid reflux as a child.

About five or six years ago, I developed a small tickle in my throat. I thought it was from jogging daily in a city with

TL;DRGERD sufferer for nearly 3 years. Been on Famotidine daily, now Omeprazole. Had an Upper Endoscopy that showed mild gastritis without H.Pylori, Ulcers, or Barrett’s

I’ve never been diagnosed with GERD, but I suspect I may have it. My main symptoms are nausea, painful swallowing, cough and regurgitation. My mom

When I was 14, in June, I had severe pain in my pelvic area and thought I was dying. I couldn’t stop sobbing and my

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“I suffered from GERD for 20 years. I experienced a lack of sleep, vomiting every night, and was unable to enjoy all foods. My symptoms also consisted of hoarseness. It didn’t matter what I ate, from plain toast to spicy food wings, it all ended up the same way. I always had to have antacids with me.
I was diagnosed with GERD 20 years ago and was prescribed Prilosec, which didn’t help. I continued to experience all my symptoms all while taking up to 2 pills a day. I was on medicine for 3 years prior to having surgery.
I learned about the surgical options from Dr. Gillian. He showed me what my problem was and how it could be fixed. I choose to pursue treatment with hopes for a better life.
I had surgery 15 months ago and have since lost 50lbs. I no longer experience heartburn, vomiting, and can sleep through the night. Now I enjoy eating hot wings, pizza, orange juice… the list can go on! I am very satisfied with my surgery!
GERD can disrupt your life in a major way! There are people that can help! You DO NOT need to live with it for 20 years like I did. Make your doctor listen… get checked out! Oh and go see Dr. Gillian to have your issue fixed! He’s AWESOME!”
-Karen

“I lived with heartburn for about 20 years with increasing severe symptoms. It impacted my ability to enjoy my favorite foods and get a good, uninterrupted sleep. I also experienced weight gain as I ‘fed the burn.’ My symptoms consisted of burning in my esophagus, pain in my chest, and general discomfort. I enjoy spicy foods, and my esophagus would become inflamed and restricted. Heartburn was a constant undesirable companion. Falling asleep or lying on my back was troublesome and would lead to reflux. I always had a water bottle nearby to relieve the burning in my esophagus and chest.
I was diagnosed with reflux 10 years ago. My doctor prescribed me Prilosec, then Nexium, and Nexium became a steady prescription. Initially the medicine did help, but over time it became less effective and of shorter duration despite higher doses. All of my symptoms continued.
I found out about the Laparoscopic Nissen Fundoplication procedure while doing web research. Dr. Gillian described it as a wrapping of the lower esophageal sphincter and stomach tissue to provide a seal that prevents acid and bile flow to my esophagus. The failure of response to medication caused me to pursue treatment.
I had surgery 3 years ago and have experienced a general improvement in my quality of life. I am now enjoying ALL things that I had to sacrifice. I am absolutely satisfied with my decision to have surgery. Recovery was quick and there are no residual effects besides general improvement.
Patients should be aware that the dietary restrictions during recovery should be strictly adhered to…”
-James E.

“I had acid reflux for 20 years. I was limited to foods, ate early, took medication, and had to sleep propped up in bed. Acid would enter my mouth in the middle of the night waking me up. I had to limit the foods I ate (i.e. peanut butter). I couldn’t eat any rich foods, and no acidic foods (i.e. tomatoes, an orange juice). I suffered from loss of sleep, had to eat early and limit what I could eat.
I was diagnosed 20 years ago and was prescribed Prevacid; which I took 2/day. The treatment did help at first, but I still had episodes on occasion. It took me 20 years until I decided to get help.
I attended a seminar Dr. Gillian held and saw an article in the newspaper. He [Dr. Gillian] explained surgery to me and it motivated me to get surgery done. I am now one year post op from having the Laparoscopic LINX done and my reflux is totally cured and I am able to eat anything when I want- especially orange juice in the A.M.! Am I satisfied with my results? Heck yes!
It will totally cure you- DO IT!!”
-William

“I’d suffered from acid reflux for 20 years. I couldn’t eat much at a time, couldn’t eat spicy foods, or sleep on my back. I experienced nausea, and reflux of both food and liquids. Heartburn caused burning in my throat as well. It affected the way I ate too. I was unable to eat spicy foods and could only eat just a few bites during a meal. Acid reflux affected my life and was debilitating the last few years. I was sick to my stomach, experienced hoarseness and lack of sleep. The major impact it caused was on my diet.
I was diagnosed with acid reflux 20 years ago. My doctor prescribed me Nexium and Protonix, but it only relieved my symptoms for a few years then became ineffective. I started to experience reflux, heartburn, and hoarseness again.
My ENT physician referred me to Dr. Gillian. My condition was explained through drawings and he [Dr. Gillian] explained both possible procedures. When the medications became ineffective I decided to pursue surgery.
It’s now been 4 months since surgery and I have no more heartburn or reflux. I am able to eat spicy food once again! I am very satisfied with my surgery outcome.
Do not suffer. Have the necessary testing done, and if the testing shows you have reflux, have the surgery. I opted for the LINX procedure because it had less side effects.”
-Cheryl

“I had heartburn for 15 years. At first, medicine controlled my reflux, but it got worse and worse and I would feel sick after eating, and drinking water. My reflux made exercising and sleeping very difficult. I was worried about cancer; my dad died from esophageal cancer). I had to sleep propped up with pillows. I experienced nausea, burning in my chest, belching, fluttering heart, and burning in my stomach. When I ate a bite of chocolate, I would be in pain. Coffee, red wine, and fried foods were bad, even when eaten in moderation. When I developed bile reflux, I had to take medicine four times a day which interfered with my scheduled meals. I was constantly worried about developing Barrett’s Esophagus and cancer and felt unwell all the time.
I was first diagnosed in 2002 and was prescribed Zantac to be taken every two weeks. It did help for a few years but my reflux got worse and then I was prescribed pantoprazole in 2009 after my endoscopy showed esophagitis and a hiatal hernia. After being on pantoprazole for five years, I decided to see someone.
I read about the Laparoscopic Nissen Fundoplication surgery and didn’t want to have that specific one done. I looked up alternatives and found out about the LINX procedure. I self-referred myself to Dr. Gillian and he explained the LINX as fixing a “plumbing problem” instead of trying to cover up my symptoms with prescribed medicines. My deteriorating quality of life and the death of my father to esophageal cancer motivated me to get help. Seven months post-op from surgery I’m feeling great. I can sleep flat at night, don’t feel nauseated, and I’m exercising more! I’m enjoying doing yoga, jogging, red wine, and sleeping! I am absolutely satisfied with my surgery!”
-Erica

“I had reflux for over 10 years. My acid reflux was tremendous and bothered me at night when sleeping. I would suffer from heartburn and gurgling in my chest. Tomato based foods and peppers were out of my diet and I had to eat before 6 pm so I that I wouldn’t have problems when sleeping. I was also unable to exercise.
I was on antacids and Prilosec for over 10 years and experienced little to no relief. When I saw Dr. Gillian in his office he spoke to me about different procedure that were available that could help with my reflux and even made drawings for me as to how the procedure would be done. I had surgery in February 2013 and now I can eat anything I want and have no more reflux! I can enjoy eating normal again. The major plus for after surgery was that now I can eat my spicy foods. I am most definitely satisfied with my surgery results.”
-James M.

“Eighteen months after surgery, I’m experiencing no heartburn related symptoms.”
“I suffered from heartburn, chest pain, and occasional stomach aches for 34 years. The symptoms were bothersome, but I suffered through them.”
“The medicine helped for a couple of years but I was still unable to eat spicy foods and sleep without chest pain.”
“Dr. Gillian discussed surgery with me with drawings and pamphlets. Once I had the procedure I was able to sleep without chest pain, and had no heartburn related symptoms.”
-Cynthia

“I suffered with reflux for 3 years. I had a hard time swallowing, breathing, and had post nasal drip consistently. The cold temperature outdoors made my symptoms worse and cardio exercises was challenging. I also would have difficulty sleeping, cough consistently, clearing of my throat, shortness of breath, and had asthma like symptoms. Enjoying spicy foods and alcohol was out the picture!
It took three years until I was properly diagnose with GERD. Over the counter meds were just band aids with no real relief. My symptoms either disappeared almost automatically or were reduced significantly.
After seeing Dr. Gillian on a news report on NBC4 made me come into the office for a consultation. He [Dr. Gillian] described the LINX procedure as a metal rubber band, similar to a candy necklace, which sits on top of the stomach around the esophagus allowing food down and not up. After hearing about this procedure I knew I wanted my problem fixed.
Following surgery my asthma like symptoms were gone and I was able to breathe again! I am happy with my results following surgery.
Don’t put off getting yourself checked out. Dr. Gillian has be a savior of sorts since getting this done.”
-Adrian

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a common chronic disease in which the contents of the stomach or duodenum enter the esophagus, causing damage to the lining cells. This disease leaves a certain imprint on the life of a person who suffers from it, because in order to effectively stop the exacerbations of the disease, you need to follow certain rules of nutrition, behavior, undergo regular examinations and therapeutic measures. Robiya Damirovna Arabova, a practicing gastroenterologist at the Kaliningrad medical center Class Clinic, spoke about how to live with GERD.

Tell me, what difficulties do people with GERD have?
Normally, the human esophagus is separated from the stomach by circular muscles (sphincter), which prevent stomach contents from entering the esophagus during digestion. In GERD, this muscle does not perform its function properly, the sphincter is open or not fully closed. Accordingly, the aggressive contents of the stomach or duodenum with hydrochloric acid, food, etc. enter the esophagus, where the environment is completely different, and have a striking effect on its mucosa. This is manifested by constant heartburn, a burning sensation, belching, pain behind the sternum may appear. Pain can radiate (give) to the jaw, under the shoulder blade, and pain attacks can also be accompanied by nausea and vomiting. All these symptoms usually occur after eating or at night.

This disease is caused by such causes as stress, nervous regulation disorders, dietary disturbances, abundant food, abuse of spicy and hot food, heredity, excess weight, pregnancy. Single reflux of stomach contents into the esophagus can also occur normally. For example, when a person ate a lot, when drinking alcohol, smoking, after and during a meal. If symptoms such as heartburn, belching are observed sporadically and rarely, most likely, we are not talking about a disease. If these signs occur frequently and constantly (2 or more times a week), you should immediately contact a specialist. One of the exact methods of confirming this disease is FEGDS (gastroscopy).

One of the most serious complications of GERD is Barrett’s syndrome or Barrett’s esophagus – a serious disease that occurs as a result of long-term regular exposure to acidic gastric juice on the esophagus. As a result, a change in the cells of the mucous membrane of the esophagus develops, which is a precancerous condition. Erosions of the esophagus may also occur, which scar, causing narrowing of the lumen of the esophagus over time (scarring stricture of the esophagus). GERD can be accompanied by anemia due to constant trauma and erosion of the esophageal mucosa.

What diet do you recommend for patients with GERD?
It is important for a person with this disease to remember that he should eat little and often. Every 2-3 hours, in small portions. The key point is that there should be little food in the stomach, which will prevent excess hydrochloric acid, which means it will alleviate the condition and prevent damage to the mucous membrane. After eating, you can not take a horizontal position (lie down). The last meal for a person with GERD should end at 7 p.m.:00-20:00 (2-3 hours before bedtime). Increase the proportion of vegetable proteins, complex carbohydrates (rice, bread, pasta) in the diet.

What in the lifestyle can provoke exacerbations of GERD, what habits should be abandoned?
It is necessary to completely give up alcohol and smoking, get rid of excess weight. Avoid the use of peppermint essential oils, which can be found in chewing gum, toothpaste and a number of other hygiene and cosmetic products, as they relax the esophageal sphincter. It is also necessary to abandon any activities in which you have to bend over often and for a long time.

It is especially dangerous to do something or work in an inclined position after eating. It is worth refusing to wear tight waist belts and, if possible, exclude any pressure on the abdominal cavity. With GERD, weight lifting and power sports are contraindicated, in which the load on the abdominal muscles increases (bodybuilding, weightlifting, martial arts are especially dangerous). And one more important point – during sleep, the head of the bed should be in an elevated position (15-20 cm).

What is gastroesophageal reflux disease? In its lower part there is an annular muscle – the esophageal sphincter, which relaxes when swallowing, and the food bolus passes into the stomach. The sphincter then contracts to prevent food from escaping back. But sometimes the sphincter contracts weakly and the acidic contents of the stomach are thrown up, and the person feels heartburn. This is called acid reflux.

In some people, the acidic contents of the stomach move up the esophagus and are thrown even further into the larynx and pharynx, which leads to their inflammation. This condition is called LPR – laryngopharyngeal reflux, extraesophageal, “silent” or atypical reflux. The reason for LPR is a weak contraction of not only the lower, but also the upper, located next to the pharynx, esophageal sphincter.

At first it didn’t bother me much, but I changed the way I eat. Heartburn stopped tormenting, but problems with the throat did not go away. The cough became constant over time, the voice was hoarse, it was painful and hard to speak. The disease was utterly exhausting: I withdrew into myself, practically stopped communicating with people, was constantly in a bad mood and could not work normally.

To find out what was wrong with me, I visited about 20 doctors. I went to private and public clinics. I usually started with a therapist, who sent me to Laura. Lor said that the cause of the problems is that the acidic contents of the stomach are thrown into the esophagus, and from there it rises higher – into the throat, due to which the larynx, pharynx and vocal cords become inflamed. He prescribed various sprays and rinses and sent me to a gastroenterologist for further treatment. The gastroenterologist again prescribed antacids, proton pump inhibitors, and drugs that speed up the movement of food through the stomach.

It is called laryngopharyngeal because the acid, rising through the esophagus, enters the larynx and pharynx – in Latin they sound like larynx and pharynx, respectively. And “quiet” – because such patients most often do not experience heartburn, they are more worried about coughing and discomfort in the throat. In fact, it was about this state that I had previously heard from lores, only without complex terms.

There are few experienced doctors in my region, so I went to the nearest large city — Kazan. There I signed up for a paid consultation at the Interregional Diagnostic Center. At the reception, he told his story, showed the conclusions of previous doctors. The surgeon said that in 20 years of practice he was faced with this for the first time and it seems like an operation is not indicated in my case, but still he can convene a council to discuss this issue.

Preparation for surgery. Before the operation, I did a fluorography, an ECG, and passed several blood tests. He went to the hospital three days before her, and all this time it was impossible to eat, they were only allowed to drink water. The most difficult thing was to mentally prepare for the operation: I found myself alone in a foreign city, there was no one to support me. But I tried not to lose heart and believed in a good outcome.

Operation. On the day of the operation, my legs were bandaged with elastic bandages, put on a gurney and taken to the operating room. There, a catheter was installed in a vein, a drip was connected to it, and I fell asleep. Slept for several hours. During this time, the surgeon made several miniature incisions on the abdomen, through which he got to the stomach and esophagus, did everything that was needed, and put in stitches.

For the first day, I couldn’t eat at all, then they kept me on a soft diet: they gave me mostly puree soups and jelly. At first it was difficult, it seemed that the food was stuck somewhere in the esophagus. But the doctor said that this is a good sign: it means that the lower part of the esophagus has strengthened and reflux will no longer bother. Gradually, the esophagus “developed”, the food passed easier and easier each time.

Acid reflux reviews: Personal Stories – About GERD

Personal Stories – About GERD

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