Chest Tightness and Breathing Issues After Duodenal Ulcer Treatment

Chest tightness and shortness of breath?

Hello doctor, I had an upper gastrointestinal endoscopy at Mackay Memorial Hospital at the end of last year, which revealed a duodenal ulcer and Helicobacter pylori infection.
The doctor prescribed a week-long course of antibiotics to eradicate the bacteria, and I also took ulcer medication for a month.
However, I often feel like there is something moving around in my stomach, esophagus, and throat.
I'm not sure what it is.
Sometimes, I experience acid reflux, and I also burp frequently.
When I lie down, my stomach makes strange noises, and I can't tell if it's water or air.
Most importantly, I sometimes feel a heavy, oppressive sensation in my chest, and I experience shortness of breath along with a dull pain in my chest.
This happens almost every day.
Based on your assessment, what could this issue be? What should I do? Because logically, if it were gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), I shouldn't be experiencing shortness of breath.

Xiao Jie, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2009/02/15

Dr. Yang Wenda reply Pulmonology

If your chest tightness and shortness of breath have no prior history of asthma, it is more likely to be symptoms caused by gastrointestinal issues.
For conditions like duodenal ulcers or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), it is recommended to take proton pump inhibitors for 3-4 months (you have only taken them for one month?).
Along with medications to enhance gastric emptying and avoiding certain trigger foods, you should see further improvement.
Best wishes!

Reply Date: 2009/02/15

More Info

It sounds like you are experiencing a range of symptoms following your treatment for a duodenal ulcer, including chest tightness, a sensation of something moving in your throat, acid reflux, and occasional shortness of breath. These symptoms can be quite distressing, and it's important to address them properly.

Firstly, the sensation of something moving in your throat, along with the acid reflux (the sour taste and belching), could indicate gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). GERD occurs when stomach acid frequently flows back into the esophagus, leading to irritation and discomfort. This can cause symptoms such as heartburn, chest pain, and a feeling of tightness in the chest. The fact that you are experiencing these symptoms after treatment for a duodenal ulcer could suggest that your stomach and esophagus are still healing or that the medication you were on may have altered your digestive processes.

The heaviness and pain in your chest, along with shortness of breath, are concerning symptoms. While they could be related to GERD, they could also indicate other issues, such as anxiety or even cardiac problems, especially if the pain is persistent or worsening. It is crucial to differentiate between these possibilities.
Given your symptoms, it is advisable to schedule a follow-up appointment with your healthcare provider. They may recommend further evaluation, such as an upper endoscopy or esophageal pH monitoring, to assess the extent of any reflux and to check for any complications from your previous ulcer treatment. Additionally, they may consider adjusting your medication or prescribing new treatments to help manage your symptoms more effectively.

In the meantime, there are several lifestyle modifications you can make to help alleviate your symptoms:
1. Dietary Changes: Avoid foods and beverages that can trigger reflux, such as spicy foods, citrus, chocolate, caffeine, and alcohol. Eating smaller, more frequent meals instead of large meals can also help.

2. Elevate Your Head While Sleeping: Raising the head of your bed can help prevent acid from flowing back into your esophagus while you sleep.

3. Avoid Lying Down After Eating: Try to stay upright for at least two to three hours after meals to reduce the likelihood of reflux.

4. Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water can help dilute stomach acid and aid digestion.

5. Manage Stress: Stress and anxiety can exacerbate gastrointestinal symptoms. Consider relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or yoga.

6. Avoid Tight Clothing: Wearing loose-fitting clothes can help reduce pressure on your abdomen and lessen reflux symptoms.

7. Monitor Your Symptoms: Keep a diary of your symptoms, noting when they occur and any potential triggers. This information can be valuable for your healthcare provider.

If your symptoms persist or worsen, or if you experience severe chest pain, difficulty breathing, or other alarming symptoms, seek medical attention immediately. It is essential to ensure that there are no serious underlying conditions contributing to your discomfort.

In summary, while your symptoms may be related to GERD or other gastrointestinal issues following your ulcer treatment, it is crucial to consult with your healthcare provider for a thorough evaluation and appropriate management. Making lifestyle changes can also help alleviate your symptoms and improve your quality of life.

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