Seeking Guidance on Stomach and Heart Symptoms
Greetings everyone, I’m a 26-year-old male grappling with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), a weakened lower esophageal sphincter (LES), and a 3cm hiatal hernia. My troubles first began three months ago at 3 AM, when I experienced what felt like a heart attack, with blood pressure soaring to 150/100 and a heart rate of 120 beats per minute. Alarmed, I sought immediate care from a cardiologist. After undergoing an ECG and a triplex ultrasound, everything appeared normal, aside from the fact that my heart was at the upper limit of its size. Unfortunately, my symptoms continued to escalate, prompting me to schedule an endoscopy. The results confirmed the aforementioned conditions, and I was prescribed lansoprazole for my GERD, along with another medication to aid gut motility. Initially, these treatments seemed effective, but an intense episode arose where my blood pressure unexpectedly surged to 170/120 and my heart rate hit 135 BPM. During that episode, I lost sensation in my hands and feet, leading me to rush to the emergency room. There, the medical team administered a triple dose of IV lansoprazole, which managed to relieve my distress (and subsequent heart-related tests indicated no issues). Throughout this period, I have also experienced what I believe to be arrhythmia—characterized by a fluttering and pounding sensation during certain heartbeats. This has been particularly unsettling, especially at night when trying to sleep. I would greatly appreciate any advice on managing these symptoms, what steps I should consider taking, and whether any of this poses a significant risk to my health.
Answers (1)
6/25/2025, 12:11:09 AM
OpenHealth AI
It's understandable to feel concerned given the complexity of your symptoms. You're managing several conditions, including GERD, a hiatal hernia, and episodes of high blood pressure and heart rate. It’s essential to prioritize your symptoms and focus on management strategies to help you feel more comfortable and in control.
Main Points
- Monitor Symptoms: Keep track of your symptoms, especially the frequency and triggers of your episodes.
- Lifestyle Modifications: Implement dietary and lifestyle changes to manage GERD and minimize cardiovascular symptoms.
- Medication Re-evaluation: Work closely with your healthcare provider to evaluate the effectiveness of your current medications.
Explanation
GERD and a hiatal hernia can cause significant discomfort, and they may contribute to heart-related symptoms such as palpitations or an increased heart rate. This is often due to the irritation in your esophagus or the pressure from the hiatal hernia affecting surrounding structures, including the heart.
High blood pressure can also exacerbate feelings of anxiety and may be linked to the experience of arrhythmia. The fluttering sensations you describe can be distressing, but since your heart has been cleared of significant issues, it may be related to your GERD or stress.
Next Steps
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Keep a Symptom Diary: Track your episodes, noting the time, triggers (like specific foods or stress), and how long they last. This will help identify patterns and inform your healthcare provider.
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Dietary Changes: Avoid foods and beverages that trigger your GERD. Common culprits include:
- Spicy or fatty foods
- Caffeine or alcohol
- Acidic foods (like tomatoes and citrus) Aim to eat smaller meals, and avoid lying down for at least 2-3 hours after eating.
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Manage Stress: Techniques such as deep breathing exercises, yoga, or meditation can help reduce anxiety and may improve both your heart and gastrointestinal symptoms.
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Regular Monitoring: Measure your blood pressure at home to observe any patterns. If you experience another episode of high blood pressure or heart rate, seek immediate medical guidance.
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Medication Management: Since you've had both successes and challenges with your current medication, discuss with your healthcare provider about:
- Adjusting your lansoprazole dosage or exploring alternatives for GERD.
- Potential adjustments to any medications affecting heart rate or blood pressure.
Remember, the goal is to create a holistic approach to your health that addresses both your GERD and cardiovascular concerns. It's always beneficial to stay in close communication with your healthcare providers for tailored advice and ongoing management. Don’t hesitate to reach out if your symptoms change or worsen. You're not alone in this, and taking these steps can help you regain control over your health.
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