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Re: Do I have GERD?

From: David Cloyd MD
Date: 12/16/00
Time: 00:48:39

Comments

I wouldn't say your symptoms clinch a diagnosis for GERD, though it is a possibility. If the pains are severe and persistent enough you may want to consider some tests. Since gallstones would also be a good candidate for your symptoms an abdominal sonogram would be a good starting place (cheap and simple). If this is negative, an UGI endoscopy might be the next test. Another way to approach it would be to take a trial of medication designed to reduce acid in your stomach (like Prilosec or Prevacid). If the medicine makes a dramatic difference then you can at least make the assumption that it is acid related, rather than something like a gallstone, which wouldn't be expected to improve with a medication. Also, if the symptoms have been there for 2 1/2 years than it sounds like its past time to see a doctor about it to discuss options like those above.

Last changed: January 11, 2008