Hey everyone, I wanted to share something my friend Cyrus is going through. He’s 27 and has been experiencing daily chest pains that vary in duration and intensity. These pains can start as soon as he wakes up and often after meals. The pain is usually sharp and localized, sometimes on the left side of his chest but also on the right side, in the middle, or under his arms. Despite having several tests, including EKGs, chest x-rays, and echocardiograms, his heart disease tests came back negative.
He also has palpitations that feel like his whole chest and back are throbbing, especially when lying down or after eating. There’s a lot of pressure in his upper chest and neck when this happens. Last summer, he also had tachycardia with a resting heart rate between 100-120, but since starting propranolol, his heart rate has dropped to 60-70, though he still experiences chest pains and palpitations.
In addition to these issues, Cyrus has tightness and pain in his throat and jaw, especially when lying down or applying pressure to his upper back or chest. This discomfort makes him cough and feels like something is stuck in his throat. He’s tried allergy medications and his rescue inhaler with no relief.
Cyrus has daily acid reflux and indigestion, with regurgitation 2-3 times a week. His GI doctor had him on various medications, including Prilosec and ranitidine, and has found a hiatal hernia through an upper endoscopy and barium swallow. The hernia is thought to be irritating his vagus nerve, which might explain his symptoms. He’s due for another round of ranitidine and may discuss surgery if his symptoms don’t improve.
He’s eliminated many trigger foods and changed his eating habits, but he still deals with nausea, stomach cramps, and fatigue. He’s often feeling miserable and struggles to function some days. Cyrus is wondering if anyone else with a hiatal hernia has experienced symptoms this severe??
I’m really sorry to hear about what Cyrus is going through. It sounds incredibly challenging and exhausting.
From what you’ve described, it seems like Cyrus is dealing with a complex set of symptoms that may be interrelated. While I can’t offer medical advice, I can share that many people with hiatal hernias do experience a range of symptoms that can sometimes be severe. Here are a few things others in similar situations have found helpful:
Comprehensive Care: Given the multiple symptoms and complications, seeing a specialist who can coordinate care across different areas might be beneficial. This could include a gastroenterologist who specializes in complex cases or a multidisciplinary clinic that focuses on chronic conditions.
Diet and Lifestyle Adjustments: While Cyrus has already made changes, sometimes further adjustments can help. This might involve working with a dietitian to create a tailored meal plan, exploring food sensitivities, or adjusting meal timing and portion sizes.
Medication Management: Sometimes, finding the right combination of medications can be a process of trial and error. Cyrus might benefit from revisiting his medication regimen with his doctor to see if there are other options or adjustments that could provide better symptom control.
Additional Testing: If symptoms persist despite treatment, further diagnostic tests might be warranted. This could include additional imaging or specialized studies to better understand the source of his symptoms.
Physical Therapy or Alternative Therapies: For symptoms like throat and jaw tightness, physical therapy focusing on relaxation and posture might provide some relief. Additionally, alternative therapies like acupuncture or chiropractic care could be worth exploring, though their effectiveness can vary.
Support Networks: Sometimes connecting with support groups or online communities for people with hiatal hernias can offer practical advice and emotional support. Others who have faced similar issues might share strategies or coping mechanisms that have worked for them.
It’s important for Cyrus to continue working closely with his healthcare team to explore all possible avenues for relief. I hope he finds a solution that helps him feel better soon.