Questions about GERD

iVillage Member
Registered: 09-05-2003
Questions about GERD
9
Sat, 07-29-2006 - 7:23pm

Hello,
I went to an ENT doctor because I had been feeling like something was lodged in my throat (at the base) for several months (on and off). He said I have GERD/acid reflux and prescribed Nexium, which I've been taking. It seemed like it was improving, but lately I've felt it again. He's sending me for x-rays to rule out anything else. From what I've read online, it sounds like GERD. But here are my questions:

1) a friend suggested that I see a gastroenterologist rather than an ENT. I've invested a few appointments with the ENT and I'd rather not start all over again if it's not necessary. Do you guys think an ENT isn't as qualified as a gastro?

2) I've been taking ambien for the last year for sleeping problems. I'm pretty sure I told the doctor I was taking it, but he didn't say anything about it. Could that have something to do with it? Maybe it's relaxing the muscle that keep the esophagus closed (forgot what it's called). I'm going to ask the doctor next time I see him, but wanted to get some opinions here as well.

Thanks!

iVillage Member
Registered: 03-04-2005
Sat, 07-29-2006 - 8:39pm

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I have company on their way over, so I'll answer quickly and be back either later tonight, or in the morning.


http://health.ivillage.com/digestion/gerd/topics/0,,4v27,00.html?ice=ivl,searcht


http://digestive.niddk.nih.gov/ddiseases/pubs/gerd/


http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/heartburn-gerd/DS00095


Personally, I would think a gastro doc would be the better choice and you do have the option of getting a second opinion.


As for the Ambien, I take it and have never noticed it causing any problems with relaxing muscles in my throat/esophagus. That's a good question to ask; please let us know what you learn, OK?


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iVillage Member
Registered: 09-05-2003
Sat, 07-29-2006 - 11:08pm
Hi Elise,
thanks for your post. I'll see what happens with the x-rays, then probably find a gastro. I'll also let you know if I find anything out about the Ambien.
thanks!
iVillage Member
Registered: 07-24-2006
Sat, 07-29-2006 - 11:09pm
I also have GERD as well as problems with esophagitis. To be honest, it never occurred to me to see an ENT for this condition. Although the ENT would be qualified to deal with the throat part of this, GERD is ultimately a gastro's issue. I'd put the ENT on hold and see the gastro.
iVillage Member
Registered: 07-24-2006
Sat, 07-29-2006 - 11:14pm
Another thing, GERD is very responsive to foods and stresses. What are you eating? Tomatos and katsup for instance really irritate mine. Overeating and then sleeping, sleeping on your back, etc. For these type things, you really need a gastro.
iVillage Member
Registered: 09-05-2003
Sat, 07-29-2006 - 11:16pm
That makes sense. I went to an ENT because all I knew was that my throat was bothering me. I didn't know what it was or that it was gastro-related. I actually have x-rays scheduled on monday that the ENT set up. I wonder if I should cancel those and just start over with a gastro...
iVillage Member
Registered: 07-24-2006
Sun, 07-30-2006 - 12:15am
Since GERD is a gastric disturbance, I'd put the ENT on hold and see the gastro ASAP. Have you had the upper endoscopy yet?
iVillage Member
Registered: 09-05-2003
Sun, 07-30-2006 - 8:08am
I had a scope that he put up through my nose and down into my throat (it was awful).
iVillage Member
Registered: 07-24-2006
Sun, 07-30-2006 - 8:40pm
For the endoscopy, the doctor puts a scope down your throat to examine your stomach. I have a pretty bad gag reflex so it was terrible. Finally they gave up on sedation and just knocked me out.
iVillage Member
Registered: 03-04-2005
Sun, 07-30-2006 - 9:35pm

Ugh, just reading your words is enough to get my gag reflex going, so they would have to knock me out for sure!

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