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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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Frequent Esophageal Spasms. Taking Medications For GERD. Chest Pains At Night. Need Help

Hi, I have recently be hit with a bad bout of esophageal spasms. These have been diagnosed by my GI, but, there doesn t seem to be any help for them, other than taking PPIs for the GERD . I take PPIs every night, but, i am still awakened EVERY night with HORRIBLE chest pain . Any suggestions on anything else that might help?(GI said that muscle relaxers MAY help, haven t tried them yet)
posted on Mon, 1 Apr 2013
Twitter Tue, 2 Apr 2013 Answered on
Twitter Wed, 3 Apr 2013 Last reviewed on
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Gastroenterologist,  's  Response
Hello, brooks.melissa,
Esophageal spasms can be associated with GERD. You are taking PPIs
which would control the acidity. Make sure that you take the PPI about
60-90 minutes before your main meal. I am sure that you have been
advised to limit caffeine, alcohol,fatty foods,tomato based products, citrus
and also dairy like cheeses etc.
Other medications include Nitrates, Calcium channel blockers and also
some anti-depressant medications to help ease the spasm.
As for foods, I should also mention chocolate, Mint. Tobacco is bad as well.
Hope you can discuss these with your doctor who can pick the right medication.
I wish you well.
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Frequent Esophageal Spasms. Taking Medications For GERD. Chest Pains At Night. Need Help

Hello, brooks.melissa, Esophageal spasms can be associated with GERD. You are taking PPIs which would control the acidity. Make sure that you take the PPI about 60-90 minutes before your main meal. I am sure that you have been advised to limit caffeine, alcohol,fatty foods,tomato based products, citrus and also dairy like cheeses etc. Other medications include Nitrates, Calcium channel blockers and also some anti-depressant medications to help ease the spasm. As for foods, I should also mention chocolate, Mint. Tobacco is bad as well. Hope you can discuss these with your doctor who can pick the right medication. I wish you well.