@zchristine72
Hello Christine, I am sorry that you and I are going through this. My symptoms are (but not limited too) intense chest pain, severe pain in the abdominal area, shortness of breath, belching so loud that if in public places it is embarrassingly noticeable, excessive gas, difficulties swallowing (I have choked so bad that I thought that I was literally dying). I have had severe vomiting and naseau that started over 18 years ago and most Doctors keep giving me medicines that do not work at all. One Physician only gave me Nexium (something that can be purchased over the counter) for several years. During Covid, my condition escalated and I vomited nearly everyday for a year and a half.

Gastroenterologists (who knew one another) both said that it was in my head due to stress but the medical tests and instruments do not lie. One of these two specialiast did not do any testing at all but only went by the notes that his peer had written. I made clear that this is not a second opinion.

In addition, I had ulcers at times, Hpylori bacteria several times and then finally three years ago, a hilial hernia diagnosis. After more than seven different Gastroenterologists and over an 18 year period, I got this diagnosis for the hernia. Sometimes I feel that my stomach is twisting. In my research I found that with the hilial hernia, the stomach can twist and strangle a person to death. However, the Doctors still downplay it and say just take these meds. This is why I say that surgery needs to take place soon (I could be wrong but I do not think so in my particular case) Sometime I am afraid to go back to sleep after episode because I may not wake up the next morning.

Finally, we have to be our own best advocate and fight for solutions because to most Doctors, we are only a number. When they minimize your symptoms, don't let them. It is good to hear that you are getting an endoscopy and Colonoscopy. There are other testing procedures that I underwent like the Ph bravo tests, Barium Swallow / Upper GI Series test, Esophageal Manometry. Once again, I was told to ignore my manometry score which was 16,000 points (normal is below 8,000).

I would ask specifically for the hilial hernia related tests. Also, if you are diagnosed with a hilial hernia, ask what level (there are four stages). If it is a three or four level, this is not good and surgery (in my opinion) may need to be considered especially if you are in stage four. I am now fighting to have my hilial hernia repaired but so far, no Doctor will do it. Hope that this helps. I do not want to see anyone get to critical symptoms like mine. The very best to you.