Feeling Air in the Esophagus After Taking Cold Medicine: Causes and Solutions

After taking the medication, I feel a sensation of gas in my esophagus?

Hello Dr.
Hong, I had a cold recently and have been taking medication for about five days.
Although I feel that my cold is mostly better, after taking so many pills, especially last night, I felt a sensation in the area below my chest, possibly around my stomach or esophagus.
When I lie down or bend over, it doesn't hurt, but I feel a sort of pressure or discomfort.
This sensation also occurs after eating, but it tends to diminish after moving around or burping.
I visited a gastroenterologist today, but after the examination, the doctor mentioned that it might be related to the medications I've been taking, along with the fact that I am currently working from home and often sitting at the computer.
He prescribed me a proton pump inhibitor and some stomach medication, advising me not to lie down immediately after eating.
I would like to ask if this situation could be a side effect of the medications, or if I should be moving around more to aid digestion.
I am also worried after reading online about potential heart or thoracic issues.
Thank you! Here is the medication bag for the cold medicine: https://ibb.co/N34mF0z

Ning, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/03/23

Dr. Hong Yuanbin reply Internal Medicine

Hello, based on your description, the two antibiotics in your medication, Clindamycin and Moxiclav, could indeed cause such symptoms.
However, your doctor has also prescribed the stomach medication Huaswei and the esophageal reflux medication Famotidine.
If you finish these medications, your symptoms should improve.
Additionally, light activity can indeed help with bloating.
As for the heart or thoracic issues you mentioned, based on your symptoms, they do not seem likely.
Thank you for your inquiry.

Reply Date: 2021/03/23

More Info

Feeling air in the esophagus or a sensation of discomfort in the chest area after taking cold medicine can be concerning, especially when combined with a recent illness. Based on your description, it seems that you are experiencing a sensation of pressure or fullness in the lower chest area, which could be related to several factors.

Firstly, it is important to understand that many cold medications contain ingredients that can affect the gastrointestinal (GI) system. For instance, some antihistamines can cause dryness in the mouth and throat, which may lead to swallowing air or experiencing a sensation of fullness in the esophagus. Additionally, certain decongestants can increase gastric acid production, potentially leading to discomfort or a feeling of pressure in the chest area, especially when lying down or bending over.

The sensation you describe as "卡卡的氣" (a feeling of air or pressure) could also be related to gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). This condition occurs when stomach acid flows back into the esophagus, causing discomfort, especially after eating or when lying down. The fact that you mentioned feeling better after moving around or burping suggests that the sensation may be related to trapped air or gas in the digestive tract, which can occur when sitting for prolonged periods, as you mentioned due to your work-from-home situation.

Your doctor’s recommendation to avoid lying down immediately after eating is sound advice, as this can exacerbate reflux symptoms. It is also beneficial to maintain an upright posture after meals to facilitate digestion and prevent discomfort. Walking or engaging in light physical activity can help stimulate digestion and alleviate feelings of fullness or pressure.

Regarding your concern about potential heart or chest issues, it is always wise to be cautious. However, if you are not experiencing any acute symptoms such as severe chest pain, shortness of breath, or radiating pain to the arm or jaw, it is less likely that your symptoms are related to a cardiac issue. Nonetheless, if you have a history of heart problems or if your symptoms worsen, it is crucial to seek immediate medical attention.

In terms of medication side effects, it is possible that the combination of medications you have taken could contribute to gastrointestinal discomfort. Some individuals may be more sensitive to certain ingredients, leading to side effects such as bloating, gas, or a sensation of fullness. If you suspect that your medications are causing these symptoms, it may be worth discussing with your healthcare provider the possibility of adjusting your treatment plan.

In summary, the sensation you are experiencing could be attributed to a combination of factors, including the effects of cold medications, potential gastroesophageal reflux, and lifestyle factors such as prolonged sitting. It is advisable to follow your doctor's recommendations regarding diet and activity levels, and if symptoms persist or worsen, further evaluation may be necessary. Always prioritize open communication with your healthcare provider to ensure that any concerns are addressed promptly and effectively.

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