Last night I woke up with an incredible burning sensation in my esophagus (extreme heartburn), but I also couldn’t inhale. I just couldn’t catch a breath. I popped a couple tums and drank some water with baking soda in it and it went away. This happens to me a couple times a year and its scary as shit. I had a late dinner and ate too much of it. I also went to bed early so I was laying down probably an hour after I ate (stupid I know.) So im prett sure this was the cause. My questions is:
What is actually happening? AND am i doing permanent damage when this happens?
Thanks,
Mac
That sounds like a good story for acid reflux. Or it could be angina, there is no way to rule it out over the internet. That’s why you should tell your story to a doctor, be examined, and possibly have diagnostic studies done.
Acid reflux occurs when stomach contents back up into the esophagus due to incompetency of the valve at the junction of the esophagus and stomach. The lining of the esophagus is not designed to withstand the harsh acid and digestive enzymes of the stomach. The result is burning pain in the chest and upper abdomen from the esophageal lining being digested. Yes, permanent damage can be done. Long term effects of acid reflux can be scarring and narrowing of the esophagus (called stricture), esophageal cancer, and even lung damage if you chronically aspirate the stomach contents while you sleep. Bad juju. Go see a doctor soonest.
Generally speaking, any pain that awakens you from sleep is worthy of note.