Symptoms Similar to Acid Reflux: Seeking Advice
Hello everyone, I hope your February is going well so far. I wanted to share a health concern that’s been troubling me over the last few days and would appreciate any insights. It all began last Friday evening, when I noticed some symptoms reminiscent of acid reflux. The onset was sudden and unexpected—I initially suspected I might have contracted the flu since my sibling had it just the day before. However, I only began experiencing more intense discomfort today, characterized by a severe stomachache. It feels akin to bad heartburn localized in my stomach, which is quite unpleasant. The most prominent issue I am dealing with involves a sensation similar to nausea. I don’t want to say I’m about to vomit, but at the same time, there’s a significant reflux sensation in my throat, especially after meals. Additionally, I’ve been experiencing intermittent episodes of my "auras" flaring up unexpectedly throughout the day, lasting around 20 to 30 minutes. I have a history of seizures, so those episodes make me a bit anxious. I’m curious if anyone has any thoughts on what might be happening here. Here’s a brief overview of my medical background: - Age: 18, Height: 5’5”, Weight: approximately 130-140 lbs - Current medications include Brivaracetam (Briviact) and Amitriptyline, along with occasional use of ibuprofen or Tylenol mainly for migraine relief. - Diagnosed with IBS, hypermetabolism, and idiopathic epilepsy (well-managed with medication, so I don’t experience seizures anymore). I suspect I may also have undiagnosed R-CPD since I have never burped, and these new symptoms are unexpected. - I do have some cardiovascular issues, though they are not classified as diseases. These may be related to my hypermetabolism or from a prior state of anemia that I’m still recovering from, and they typically arise when I’m resting. - I haven’t noticed significant heartburn or stomach discomfort (apart from mild nausea-related pains) until these recent events. - I don’t think my issues are connected to my menstrual cycle, as I can differentiate between various types of stomach pain (it would be more intense if it were menstrual-related, which is a relief). Should I consider seeking medical advice? I would love any input you might have regarding what this could potentially be, which I could discuss with my physician. My apologies for any delays in response; I rarely check Reddit and have notifications turned off. I’m mainly here to gather some conversation starters or to be guided towards seeing a professional, which I plan to do when my finances allow it—in a bit of a tight spot currently. Once again, I’m not necessarily looking for a professional diagnosis, as I intend to consult a doctor if these symptoms persist. I appreciate any suggestions or thoughts you can share! Thank you!
Answers (1)
2/17/2026, 5:31:03 AM
OpenHealth AI
It's understandable to be concerned about these symptoms, especially with your medical history. The discomfort you're experiencing may indeed be related to acid reflux, but considering your history of IBS and other gastrointestinal issues, there are several possibilities to explore. Additionally, your episodes of aura may be linked to anxiety regarding these symptoms.
Explanation
The sensations of severe stomachache and reflux, along with nausea, can stem from several gastrointestinal conditions or flare-ups of a pre-existing condition like IBS. It’s also possible that your recent bouts of discomfort could be exacerbated by anxiety or stress, especially with the history of seizures. Since you mentioned experiencing intermittent auras, it’s crucial to recognize any triggers that may cause your symptoms to worsen, such as specific foods, stress, or even changes in routine.
Next Steps
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Monitor Your Symptoms: Keep track of when your symptoms occur, noting any patterns related to food intake, stress levels, or specific activities. This can help identify triggers.
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Modify Your Diet:
- Avoid Trigger Foods: Common irritants include spicy foods, fatty foods, caffeine, and acidic foods like citrus or tomatoes.
- Smaller Meals: Eating smaller, more frequent meals instead of larger ones can reduce stomach pressure and reflux.
- Stay Upright After Eating: Try not to lie down immediately after meals, as this may worsen reflux.
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Hydration and Rest: Stay hydrated, but avoid excessive drinking during meals to limit stomach distension. Rest, especially if you find that your symptoms are stress-related.
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Relaxation Techniques: Consider practicing relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing or mindfulness, to help manage anxiety surrounding your symptoms.
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Keep a Symptom Diary: Documenting your symptoms, foods consumed, and any related episodes can be very helpful for your healthcare provider when you are able to consult with them.
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Assess Need for Medical Attention: If symptoms worsen or include alarming features such as severe pain, persistent vomiting, or if your aura episodes increase in frequency or severity, seek medical attention as soon as you can.
Remember, addressing these issues can take time, and it’s important to be gentle with yourself during this process. If finances are a concern, consider reaching out to local health services for guidance on affordable care options. Take care, and I hope you feel better soon!
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