Scott,
I have found that the things we fear the most rarely ever happen.
I have had that itching sensation, and I was told the sensations were from small spasms in the esophagus and stomach. I take small doses of a muscle relaxer and it really helps. I hope that info helps you feel a little less anxious.
I think the whole bad stomach *thing* is difficult for most of us to live with. I sure would like to have a normal response to food I once enjoyed.
Good luck in finding something that works.
Ish