Esophagitis has lead to no solid foods and then straight to frequent panic attacks?

Question:

I have esophagitis from acid reflux and on prevacid now for three weeks. I always feels like my throat if full. I haven't eaten solid foods in over a month. I am living on Boost energy drinks and water. It started with panic when I tried to eat, now I'm just having panic attacks whenever. I've had an upper GI scope, a swallow test, and seen an ENT doctor. I've been hypnotized and seeing a myofacial release therapist, who "releases" soft tissue under the skin. Nothing seems to be working. I have lost 40 lbs. in just over 3 months. Anyone have suggestions or heard of anyone else having this same difficulty. I feel like when I go to a doctor, they've never seen this occur before. Thanks.

Answers:
Sorry to hear about your difficulties. It must be very distressing. Did the doctor do a biopsy during the upper GI to
help pinpoint the cause of the inflammation? Also, were blood tests performed? It is possible you have an autoimmune disorder. I have had esophagitis, but not nearly to this degree of severity. I did find that I had to take triple the normal dose of Prilosec to clear it up. With a forty pound weight loss, your gastroenterologist should be working with you and following you much more closely. Seek another opinion right away; best of luck to you.

did they check to see if you're allergic to something (maybe the prevacid) which may be causing your esophagitis? or an infection?

You have been diagnosed with GERD and esophagitis and are taking Prevacid. Regarding proton pump inhibitors (like Prevacid), 4-8 weeks is the standard timeline for relief from your symptoms.

Please read carefully about GERD at http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/gerd/ds... There is much good information in this article; some of it may help you.

I know you are anxious, stressed, and in considerable discomfort, but your condition did not become this serious in three weeks, and it will not go away in three weeks. Please continue your Prevacid and, if after 8 weeks you still have symptoms, either ask for more Prevacid or a different medication. I hesitate to recommend medications, but acipHex and Nexium worked for my erosive esophagitis.

You will get through this.

im sorry no one hears you. it seems soo typical of mds who are too busy to deal with the entire person. there is a procedure where they stretch your esophagus, have u had it? also with any chronic illness seeking talking therapy will alwyas help, remember its a self improvement class in you.goodluck;)michele

Hi, sorry to hear you are feeling so bad. I'm sorry I can't help with advice on Esophagitis, but the following steps will eliminate (or at least significantly reduce) your panic attacks:

1.Breathe properly - if you control your breathing, you control panic. As soon as you notice the signs of anxiety, check your breathing: breathe in slowly through your nose pushing your tummy out (to the count of 5 or so). Breathe out slowly and for a bit longer (to the count of 7 or so) through your mouth. Do not breathe rapidly or shallowly (in the chest area). This will soon restore the balance of oxygen and you will feel a lot better.

2. Cognitive Behavioural Therapy! CBT is proven to be the most effective thing for panic attacks, OCD and anxiety etc. It takes a bit of work, but it is super effective. (After 15 years of panic attacks, mine stopped completely). You can speak to your doctor about taking a course or you can take a course for free online at: www.livinglifetothefull.com

3. Try relaxation exercise tapes (progressive muscular relaxation). They really help if you practise often enough. You can get free downloads online, e.g. http://www.studentservices.utas.edu.au/c...

With each step practise makes perfect. (i.e. practise the steps every day, not just when you are feeling bad). I hope you feel better soon. Best of luck!

Esophagitis has lead to no solid foods and then straight to frequent panic attacks?

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