Doctor told me "food sticking in chest" is my IBS??? - Dysphagia Message Board

junior26 · 03-14-2008, 11:24 AM

I went to doctor and explained that for that past few years, I've been noticing that everything I eat slows down at the same spot in the middle of my chest. I also have IBS since 2002 and the doctor thinks that the dysphagia (food sticking in chest) is simply one of my IBS symptoms.

I've read this this was a possible symptoms, but it does not seem to be a common problem. Please reassure me! I also have severe anxiety (life and health) and I believe that my IBS is at least somewhat connected.

On my way out, here's a list of my symptoms...

1. Excessive belching 2 hours after every meal.
2. Ribbon-like stools 100% of the time (when they're soft). But this may have to do with the shape of my anus (sorry for the mental image folks!). Not a tumor since this has been happening for at least 3 years. But apparently are associated with IBS.
3. Spicy foods make me go to the bathroom IMMEDIATELY after eating (usually diarrhea).
4. Coffee makes me go immediately after drinking, but not diarrhea.
5. Cheese gives me diarrhea 1/2 the time. If I eat a piece of cheese alone, it will give me diarrhea. But if I eat a huge amount of cheese with a meal, sometimes nothing happens. Weird. Also depends if I already have food in my colon. If there is, it's outta there!
6. Food seems to stick in middle of chest (and throat sometimes).

Thanks in advance for the feedback!

April46 · 03-20-2008, 02:47 PM

I have ibs, but I was diagnosed with esophogeal dismotility after xrays of my swallowing. It's an electrical problem, rather than an emotional one. That has helped me a lot, because I'm always afraid I cause things to be bad myself. Dr said it worsens with age, but it's been 4 or 5 years and I cant tell it's worsened any. I am 61.

Harry · 03-26-2008, 06:43 AM

My wife has a problem with swallowing -- it was diagnosed using a manometer--- measuring pressure every 1/2 inch down the esophagus as she took sips of water -- the Doctor said it is as Nut Cracker syndrome. And, he prescribed a proton pump inhibitor-- Prilosec. It has worked for well over 10 years to aid swallowing.
My wife does not have IBS.

Harry

elefantgirl13 · 03-30-2008, 01:51 AM

I have the same problem with swallowing. I eat, and halfway down it just sites there. My doc gave me prilosec, and I have been taking it since May, and it helps immensely. Now, the bloating has slowed, and the bowel movements are more normal. I don't belch as often, but the gas is still an issue. The food goes down now, and I can feel it get "to the bottom". My stomach empties out quite swiftly, but if I eat the right things, I do not get hungry. I take a calcium supplement and a vitamin daily with the prilosec, and it has helped me to fight the IBS with no other meds. I hope this helps.

MissB999 · 03-31-2008, 01:17 PM

Hi there,

I have this problem very occasionally with my IBS too. I also suffer anxiety which can make food 'stick' in the chest. Its horrible, it feels like my whole meal is stuck in there! But it clears quickly.