Acid Reflux misery - awaiting diagnosis

I am waiting for an endoscopy to check for cancer which will happen on the 14th Feb but have the classic symptoms of eosophigeal cancer which started three weeks ago. I suddenly got reflux and heartburn one night that has not stopped since and then a few days later it felt like food was sticking in my throat.

My GP referred me for urgent endoscopy as tried ppis and all the lifestyle changes for couple of weeks and Gaviscon advance but did nothing. I now have oesophagitis very badly and my throat is burned and sore and it will not heal because of all the acid. The sticking is way worse in two weeks so think inflammation is not helping and is restricting my throat more. I know the thinking is a tumour is causing the constant reflux/heartburn but at this rate I’m not going to even make it to my endoscopy to see let alone to diagnosis and any possible treatment/care. The reflux happens constantly and I can’t eat, sleep, drink, or even walk around much without causing it. 

The GP has just left me with the referral and the ppi that doesn’t work so is this it? Is there nothing can be done for people with cancer that causes such reflux when ppis don’t work? Is there no other option? I’m so worried as I thought would have a little more time to prepare my son and myself but think am going to die of eosophigitis swelling or it might cause infection/starvation before I know anything for sure. Is there anything can be done/I can do? I feel so helpless.  

  • Hello AMRU, and thank you for posting,

    I’m really sorry to hear that you’re experiencing these symptoms. Oesophagitis can be very uncomfortable, and, understandably, waiting for tests and results can also add to your stress and anxiety.

    Oesophagitis (inflammation of the oesophagus) often causes pain and difficulty swallowing, and acid reflux is a common underlying cause. It might be reassuring to know that most people who are referred urgently with these symptoms do not go on to be diagnosed with cancer, but it is something that needs to be checked for.

    If your symptoms are getting worse while you wait for your endoscopy, do contact your GP. There are several different types of proton‑pump inhibitors (PPIs), and sometimes trying an alternative can help. If you have trouble reaching your GP, NHS 111 can give advice, and if you ever feel you need urgent medical help, call 999.

    You may also find this patient information on acid reflux and oesophagitis from West Suffolk NHS Trust helpful.

    I hope this has helped a little. Please do get back in touch if you have any more questions. If you’d like to talk things through with one of our nurses, our helpline is available Monday–Friday, 9 am–5 pm, on 0808 800 4040.

    Jemma