A review of visiting the internal medicine department and taking acid-suppressing medication for symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease

Due to my eating and lifestyle habits, I suffered from reflux esophagitis for over three months. I visited a well-known local internal medicine clinic, and after the examination, I was diagnosed with reflux esophagitis progressing. I took medication to suppress stomach acid secretion consistently for about two months, and gradually I felt my symptoms improve. The symptoms of reflux esophagitis included severe burning chest pain over time, which made me think I had a heart problem. Reflux esophagitis occurs when the lower esophageal sphincter is weak or improperly opens, causing stomach acid to reflux into the esophagus, but I thought it would be okay and ignored it until the symptoms worsened. Later, I experienced a bitter taste in my throat or felt like acid was coming up, and eating or swallowing food became difficult due to chest pain. I also developed a hoarse voice, similar to a cold, making it hard to speak. So, I went to a well-known local internal medicine clinic, and after specialist consultation, I was diagnosed with reflux esophagitis. I continued taking medication to suppress stomach acid secretion for about two months, and my symptoms gradually improved. Since reflux esophagitis can recur, I avoid alcohol, coffee, and greasy foods that negatively affect the lower esophageal sphincter. I also eat smaller portions and space out my meals to prevent reflux. After eating, no matter how tired I am, I avoid lying down immediately and make it a habit to lie down at least an hour later.