For over two years now, and almost three, I have had a low burning feeling in my chest. It’s not the sensation that I know to be heartburn, it feels more similar to a cough, but I was diagnosed with GERD after an endoscopy in February 2021. The sensation is constant - 24/7 - and never goes away. I have not had a moment of relief since January of 2020.

I’m feeling depressed because I have tried everything to get better. I began exercising, and have lost a decent bit of weight. I’ve cut every potential problem food out of my diet. Everything I eat now is extremely bland, no spices, no flavor. It’s even worse because cooking and food were previously one of my great joys in life. I also quit drinking and smoking marijuana altogether.

I’ve tried every GERD medication under the Sun. PPIs, H2 blockers, antacids, everything. Nothing gave me even an ounce of relief.

I just feel like it’s sucking the joy from my life. It’s depressing to know that this feeling will be there in the morning, and when I go to bed, and the next morning after that. It’s affecting my work life, as my boss won’t let me be around clients due to my persistent coughing. It’s affecting my home life as my girlfriend is getting tired of my cough, my complaints, and my attitude is going to shit. I need help, but can’t find it anywhere. I’m sorry to mope and be negative, but I just am at my wits end. I simply don’t know what to do 😞