One month symptom free of GERD/gastritis, no PPI… still scared to swallow solids
Or, partial solids. I tried to eat shitty maruchan ramen tonight. Scared me. Maybe had 1/3. Lately I’ve been having to wash food down with water before I even swallow it. Take a bite, get some water, maybe swish, swallow. Even potatoes.
I can’t tell if my OCD has latched onto this HARD or I’m experiencing true progression of worsening dysphagia. It started with the sensation of food getting caught at my collarbone. Whether it was or not, idk. Didn’t love it though. I haven’t taken any big bites in months. If I do, it’s a) spat out or b) downed with water.
I also am wondering since having struggled with gastritis + gerd for 7 months, leading to a general reduction in food, and proclivity towards soups/purees/protein shakes during this time, if my esophagus has generally weakened and I’m forgetting how to swallow.
My brain simply will not let me take a big bite and swallow it. I keep trying just to see if I can do it/it’s all in my head… won’t.
I’m starting to get sad about this. I have a 3 year old and don’t wait to truly eat any solids until my husband gets home.. I’m weak all day because protein shakes & soup isn’t cutting it. I’m grateful my gastritis is healing up and I’ve been symptom free of GERD for a month (it was really bad, regurgitation, nonstop burps, eating made me nauseous, sore throat constantly, heartburn over everything and anything). But fuck I just want to eat a good meal. A full meal, not because I’m full too fast but because I was able to get through every swallow without the mental fatigue of it.
Had bloodwork & abdominal ultrasound done in December, all clear. Negative h pylori. Barium swallow scheduled. I just want my life back..