GERD & Heartburn Support Group
Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) is defined as chronic symptoms or mucosal damage produced by the abnormal reflux of gastric contents into the esophagus. This is commonly due to transient or permanent changes in the barrier between the esophagus and the stomach. If you are afflicted with GERD or heartburn, join the group and find support.
Hi, I'm new here and quite desperate. I've been struggling with a flare of chronic gastritis and GERD for over 8 months now. Worst of it, even worse than the pain, is the constant lump in my throaty that only goes away when I'm actually eating. I'm getting really tired of it, so fed up with it all, and I believe the stress of this feeling makes it all worse. How do I get out of this vicious circle? Has anyone successfully managed to get rid of the Globus syndrome?
I've been on gastritis diet for six weeks now, taking PPI since one week, and still no improvement.
I know people say it takes time, but how much time? And when should it start improving? How do I know I'm even on the right track with any of this?
I'm sorry you are dealing with this. Globus Sensation or Syndrome is so ridiculously anxiety-inducing. I know what you are going through. My story is a long one, so I'll give you the Cliffsnotes and then you can ask anything and I'll help if I can.
I chased after my LPR diagnosis for a year and a half. All through Covid. It literally brought me to these forums as I spun out of control with anxiety over it all. Doctors in my area were ridiculously unhelpful and lacking of knowledge in anything related to "aero-digestive" issues.
About halfway through this ridiculous carnival of doctors, I finally found a new general practitioner that at least slapped Globus on me for diagnosis, as I had all of the classic symptoms. This helped pave the way to go to out-of-state specialists an confirm that globus sensation wasn't what I was essentially dealing with, but that it was a symptom of the bigger issue.
So my scenario is a little backwards from yours, but it's all related. I am still struggling keeping the LPR and it's symptoms like globus sensation under control, but I found that shedding light on what the heck was going on, was so helpful in itself for me to battle the anxiety from it. <--this is key, because I think the two are VERY intertwined. In fact, go and look at the history of Globus Syndrome. Up until the 1960s, most doctors considered it to be 100% psychosomatic. Some doctors today still believe that and I truly think most at least weigh heavily on the assumption that anxiety and mental ailments are a huge component. This sucks early on when you are going through it, as it feels dismissive and you feel super discounted.
Hang in there. Globus truly sucks. I would consider looking at the anxiety angle and maybe some counseling, if for anything, to help you mediate the stress and anxiety dealing with it. While doing that, continue focusing on the low-acid diet and things you can do for GERD.
Please reach out if you need.