Treating GERD and Esophagal Issues Everyday Health Menu NewslettersSearch GERD Treating GERD and Esophagal Issues By Dr. Mark Babyatsky Reviewed: October 8, 2007 Fact-Checked Q1. I have been diagnosed with spasms of the esophagus. They often turn into a painful pressure in the middle of my chest. It feels as though I am having a heart attack, but heart disease has been ruled out. Is there a treatment for these spasms? — Richard, LouisianaDiffuse esophageal spasm is a relatively uncommon disorder that results from abnormal movements of the muscles lining the esophagus. The painful pressure mimics the pain of a heart attack, making it important to rule out heart disease, as you have done. Fortunately, there are effective treatments for esophageal spasms, including Q2. What are the long-term side effects of taking acid reflux medications (Prevacid, Prilosec, Aciphex, etc.)?The news about long-term effects is good. These medications are called In addition, stomach acid helps iron absorption, so using a PPI, which blocks acid, can occasionally lead to iron deficiency. The good news is that the typical Western diet is so rich in iron that a deficiency is very uncommon, but do check your vitamin B12 and iron levels if you feel weak, tired, or short of breath. Vitamin B12 levels should be checked — even if no symptoms develop — after three years on a proton pump inhibitor, and yearly after that. Q3. I read a report that long-term use of Nexium can cause bone loss. What is your advice on the best way to reduce this side effect? NEWSLETTERS Sign up for our Digestive Health Newsletter SubscribeBy subscribing you agree to the Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. The Latest in GERD Treatment Options for GERD Although most cases of GERD can be effectively managed with lifestyle modifications and medications, sometimes surgery may be necessary.By Mark HenricksDecember 3, 2021 What’s the Difference Between Acid Reflux and GERD? A burning pain in your chest generally signals heartburn, right? But if you are thinking that heartburn, also known as acid reflux, is the same as gastroesophag...By Denise SchipaniDecember 1, 2021 What Is GERD? Symptoms, Causes, Diagnosis, Treatment, and PreventionBy Ashley WelchAugust 27, 2021 Managing GERD in an Era of UncertaintyBy Everyday Health Guest ContributorNovember 22, 2019 Still Searching for Relief From GERDBy Sean Delshad, MD, MBAMay 24, 2019 Heartburn Causes, Symptoms, and DiagnosisBy Diana RodriguezSeptember 17, 2018 How Changes in Body Weight Affect GERD A growing body of research shows that your weight can have a significant impact on acid reflux and related symptoms.By Allison RyanJune 22, 2018 GERD Symptoms and DiagnosisBy Mark HenricksJune 19, 2018 How to Choose the Right GERD Diet Consuming smaller meals, eating slowly, and avoiding certain foods may help relieve symptoms of GERD.By Mark HenricksJune 14, 2018 New Diet to Cut Acid RefluxBy November 16, 2017 MORE IN Gout Treatment and Prevention 4 Natural Remedies for Reflux Due to Eosinophilic Esophagitis What Is GERD? Symptoms, Causes, Diagnosis, Treatment, and Prevention Wellness inspired Wellness enabled FacebookTwitterInstagramPinterestYoutubeTikTok About Us Careers Editorial Policy Newsletters Meet Our Health Expert Network Privacy Policy Health News Accessibility Statement Terms of Use Contact Us Feedback Do Not Sell My Personal Information Popular Topics AdChoices NEWSLETTERS Get the best in health and wellness SubscribeBy subscribing you agree to the Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. A PROPERTY OF EHGLogo More From Everyday Health: Castle Connolly Top Doctors DailyOM Diabetes Daily Everyday Health Care Migraine Again 1996-2022 Everyday Health, Inc. Everyday Health is among the federally registered trademarks of Everyday Health, Inc. and may not be used by third parties without explicit permission. Badges Badges Badges