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.

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Gastrointestinal System
/ GERD & Heartburn Support Group

Really desperate

jennielouises
jennielouises
I just can't get my gerd under control. I am on 40mg of nexium and it works more than others but I still have bad days and I have the hunger pains and wind and burping every single day. I have tried EVERYTHING. The docs think I am stresses and that has caused it. But I am stressed cuz I feel ill and won't be able to destress until I get some releaf! I am crying my eyes out again as I write this. I had a bad ibs attack yesterday and am now full of wind and heartburn. I need help
deleted_user
deleted_user
Sorry to hear about your tough time w/ GERD. If your really stressed out right now, I agree w/ the docs that stress could be causing your GERD to flare up. That was the case for me when I was on Protonix. The ENT and GI said that I had to do my best to cut the stress, since stress will usually take its toll on my stomach first. Cutting down the stress really helped my stomach and nerves a lot.

My best advice would be to try to find something relaxing to do if you can. For me Yoga really helps since its really calming. I've also learned how to knit and take long walks in areas that are calm like a nature trail b/c I can see so many different types of birds this time of the year before the weather starts to become chilly. Listening to calming music also helps. Some people also swear by calming sound machines or nature CDs

Well, good luck :D
deleted_user
deleted_user
Stress really does make this worse. When i am stressed and cannot sleep, it makes the GERD much worse. I have been seeing a psychologist who specializes in GI cases. She is part of the GI department at my hospital. We recently started doing hypnotherapy, which feels more like guided meditation. I am quite certain you could find a podcast or CD out there similar. I will say this, you wake up really relaxed. She even taped a few sessions, so I can listen at home. I am also going to try acupuncture.

I also recommend yoga or tai chi. When i used to do Tai Chi years ago, I was never more relaxed than afterward (and flexible too). I also find exercise to be very helpful. I do a heavy aerobic routine on the bike, and if nothing else it makes the rest of me feel better.

I feel for you, cause I am going through a really rough GI patch right now. It is tough, and you are not alone.
jennielouises
jennielouises
thank you both for your replies. I has helped me feel a lot better. Just went out on a nice walk in the sunshine on Sunday which was relaxing. so must keep that up
deleted_user
deleted_user
20+ years ago when it was still prescriptioned, Tagamet was my miracle cure. It is now over the counter and I still take it from time to time, though I have to have a PPI on a regular basis. I always gave Tagamet to my youngest who tended to have trouble when she got overly nervous preparing for her debate tournaments. It put her right back to normal in less than an hour. Might try it in addition to whatever else you take. Good luck!