Throat and Chest Pain

Dear Dr. Meletis,

I have been having pains in my throat and chest on and off almost daily for the past month or so. Anything you would recommend to relieve this? I have not changed my diet, which is very good, and I don’t want to use the heartburn meds.

Ms. O.

Dear Ms. O.,

Your symptoms may be attributable to acid reflux, yet it may be something totally different as well. As you likely know, often women present with cardiac issues differently than their male counterparts. You will want to have a visit with your doctor relative to your symptoms to make sure your heart is fine. After that has been ruled out, you can have them check for other causes of your symptoms, including TMJ syndrome. If you have a bacterial infection called H. pylori that can also be tested for; this can contribute to acid reflux issues as well, as can sleep apnea. From a supplement perspective, CeaseFire® is a popular item to aid with irritation of the esophagus from what I have observed in clinical practice. Working closely with your doctor and once things have been ruled in and out, relative to potential causes, then this may be a consideration.

Sincerely,

Chris D. Meletis, ND