From the Guidelines
You should contact your healthcare provider immediately to report these symptoms, as they could indicate a serious condition requiring prompt medical attention, such as worsening gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) or other digestive disorders 1. It sounds like you're experiencing worsening gastrointestinal issues, including vomiting and a sensation of food getting stuck in your throat (dysphagia). Your new medication may be causing adverse effects or might not be addressing your underlying condition effectively. When you speak with your provider, be specific about which medication you started, when you began taking it, and exactly how your symptoms have changed. In the meantime, try eating smaller, more frequent meals, avoiding spicy or acidic foods, staying hydrated with clear fluids, and keeping your upper body elevated after eating. These symptoms could indicate various conditions ranging from medication side effects to esophageal stricture or other digestive disorders that need proper evaluation. Delaying medical care could lead to complications like dehydration, malnutrition, or worsening of your underlying condition. Given the recent shift towards a personalized approach to the evaluation and management of GERD symptoms, as outlined in the 2022 AGA clinical practice update 1, it's essential to work closely with your healthcare provider to determine the best course of action for your specific situation. The use of proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) or other medications should be reassessed, and alternative treatments, such as lifestyle modifications or other therapies, may be considered to better manage your symptoms and improve your quality of life. It's also important to note that antireflux surgery may be an option for some patients with GERD, particularly those with persistent troublesome regurgitation, but this should be discussed thoroughly with your provider, weighing the potential benefits against the risks of new symptoms consequent from antireflux surgery 1.
From the Research
Stomach Problems and Medication
- The user is experiencing stomach problems, including throwing up and difficulty swallowing, after being put on new medication 2, 3.
- The studies suggest that omeprazole is effective in treating gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GORD) and reducing the need for dilatation of peptic oesophageal strictures 2, 3.
- However, the user's symptoms may be related to an oesophageal stricture, which can be treated with endoscopic management, including dilatation, injectional therapy, stenting, stricturotomy, and ablation 4.
Treatment Options
- Omeprazole has been shown to be effective in reducing the need for dilatation of peptic oesophageal strictures and improving symptoms of GORD 2, 3.
- Other treatment options, such as ondansetron, may be used to manage postoperative nausea and vomiting, but its effectiveness in treating the user's specific symptoms is unclear 5.
- The user's healthcare provider may need to reassess their treatment plan and consider alternative medications or therapies to manage their stomach problems.
Symptoms and Diagnosis
- The user's symptoms, including throwing up and difficulty swallowing, may be indicative of an underlying condition, such as GORD or an oesophageal stricture 2, 3, 4.
- A thorough diagnosis and evaluation by a healthcare provider are necessary to determine the underlying cause of the user's symptoms and develop an effective treatment plan.