Join Our Community!
Share
GERD affects up to 20% of all American adults. But what are the characteristics of this gastro-intestinal disease? And what are some effects of GERD?...
GERD can be uncomfortable. But who is at risk of developing GERD? And what muscle is responsible for GERD? Read on for risk factors and causes of GERD here....
How do you know if you're having heartburn or a heart attack? We define symptoms of both ... plus details on when to seek help for GERD here....
User Profile
Q: Possibility of GERD
asked by: DoctorQuestion on August 12th, 2009
I am a 29 year old female and i am in good health... But lately i have been having weird feelings happening to my body. I will start by statint that my chset feels like it is burning just in the upper area in the middle towards the left. that usually last for hours and it is made worst by standing. It also comes with upset stomach. Also been having pain on my left shoulder the front part it hurts my neck and chest this last for minutes and it comes and goes. it also is associated with stomach pains. and what worries me is the flashes of light i am seeing they come and go. i can be sitting down doing work and all the sudden i see flashes of light this last for seconds to minutes. I am one of the many americans that do not have health insurance just recently lost my job there for lost insurance. and my husband is dissabled times a rough.. if anyone can adivise me it would be great. these symptons just started about 3 days ago and they are getting worst.


Did you find this post useful?
|
Replies(2)
User Profile
Dr. Goce Aleksovski , MD
replied on August 22nd, 2009
Digestive and Bowel Disorders Answer A7117


Referring to the symptoms you reported (burning sensation in the chest that is also present in the left shoulder and is related meals), it seems possible that you might be experiencing gastroesophageal reflux disease. Gastroesophageal reflux disease is a condition in which the gastric acid enters back up the esophagus where it might cause inflammation of the mucosa. This inflammation is presented with pain in the chest or in the back.


Incompetence of the lower esophageal sphincter, transient lower esophageal sphincter relaxation, impaired expulsion of gastric reflux from the esophagus, or a hiatal hernia might be the causes for gastroesophageal reflux disease.


You might want to visit a specialist for the upper gastrointestinal tract for a physical examination. Gastroscopy might be recommended to visualize and to diagnose or to rule out the mentioned condition.


Meanwhile, avoiding substances that might act as irritants to the esophageal mucosa (alcohol, caffeine, etc.) might reduce the inflammation and ease the symptoms. Lifestyle modifications (avoiding stress and anxiety, practicing relaxation techniques) might be helpful, too.


As for the light flashes you might visit a neurologist for further examination because the symptom is not specific enough for any diagnosis to be given.




DISCLAIMER: "Ask a Doctor" questions are answered by certified physicians and other medical professionals who volunteer their time on eHealth Forum. For more information about experts participating in the "Ask a Doctor" Network, please visit our medical experts page. You may also visit our Digestive and Bowel Disorders , for moderated patient to patient support and information.

The information provided on eHealth Forum is designed to improve, not replace, the relationship between a patient and his/her own physician. Personal consultation(s) with a qualified medical professional is the proper means for diagnosing any medical condition.
Did you find this post useful?
|
This question has been answered by the doctor. This topic is now open for public discussion, however no comments below this point will be answered by a doctor.
Quick Reply
Search