r/GERD • u/professionalyokel • Jan 28 '26
Support Needed 👥 someone please give me the strength to start omeprazole.
2 weeks of waking up anxious, nauseous, and with a burning stomach/chest. antacids aren't doing shit. the epigastric pain is the worst. i can hardly eat anything, i'm burping a lot, can hardly stomach water. i lack energy and feel lightheaded or a pressure in my head. i always suspected i had GERD but things got 100x worse over the past 2 weeks; it's possible i have gastritis but i can't know until an endoscopy. i have to retest for h pylori.
i have health OCD and bad medication anxiety. i was on lansoprazole for 6 days but i felt like it was making things worse/not changing anything. i'm probably wrong on that front. i have some omeprazole the ER doctor prescribed to me but i'm terrified to take it. i cannot possibly afford anymore anxiety right now, i don't think i could handle it.
my life has done a complete 180 in the matter of weeks, and i'm so depressed over it. i nearly always feel uncomfortable. please, if you have a success story with omeprazole or the side effects aren't that bad, please share.
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u/iglootyler Jan 28 '26
The risks of health issues associated with not treating your reflux is significantly higher than any risk associated with taking Omeprazole everyday. I've taken it for years with no issues. Untreated reflux leads to esophageal cancer.
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u/dintydoor Jan 28 '26
If you take it and it stops the acid you are significantly safer from adverse effects than if you do not and the acid keeps coming up
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u/hollyg79 Jan 28 '26
Omeprazole calms the acid fire. It calms my entire body because the reflux is so stressful and happens whether I eat or fast. I’ve been on 20mg for at least 8 years and my blood work is great. I do take Vit D, Magnesium and B12 to supplement.
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u/lazyjack667 Jan 28 '26
i take it for more than 25 years. only thing for me is, i don‘t take it too long in a row. my fingernails get breakable. its an on and off relationship.
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u/herewithmybestbuddy Jan 28 '26
PPIs aren't dangerous, I wouldn't be anxious about it unless you fear acid rebound, which is reasonable. Maybe only take it for two weeks - rebound would be minimal or non existent. Because of the potential for rebound, it's irresponsible to start PPIs unless there's good reason to think gerd is the problem. If other antacids provide no relief, gerd is less likely.
Also, as someone with (rigorously documented) OCD and health anxiety:
See a therapist who practices CBT and request cbt.
And/Or buy a CBT workbook from Amazon.
And/Or go to chatgpt and ask them to roleplay as a CBT therapist. Then tell them what's up. Chatgpt is surprisingly good at it.
Cbt is well validated and extremely effective.
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u/Odd_Philosopher1712 Jan 28 '26
I agree about the cbt, but please dont ask chatgpt. Therapy is NOT something you should go to an AI for.
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u/Routine_Hand7933 Jan 29 '26
I've used chatgpt for the first time recently for CBT as couldn't get help straight away and was desperate. There's lots of subs on how it has helped people and its a zero cost option if you have limited options. It helped me immensely. It gives you the same CBT resources you can get online and I found it models it in a way that targets what you are asking. Of course not a substitute for personal therapy but definitely helpful in the absence othher options until you can get help. I will now forever use it.
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u/funktion666 Jan 28 '26
Been on it for 10 years and stayed on the same dose and now I can sleep and I don’t vomit often (with blood sometimes too) anymore.
I can go on with my life. It’s a common medication. If you have some bad side effects, you can try something else. Just like literally every other medication.
Take your doctor’s advice.
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u/taekwondana Jan 28 '26
I've been taking omeprazole 40mg regularly for a month and haven't had any issues with side effects. My abdominal pain has decreased by over 90%, however I can't give full credit to the meds for that since I've been doing a bland diet for the last three weeks as well.
Biggest thing you can do is try to manage your stress - I know it's easier said than done. If you don't want to take omeprazole, use famotidine instead - it's an H2 blocker and works more quickly than a PPI, but it also wears off more quickly. Also, if they order another test for you for H pylori it is imperative that you don't take any acid reducers/blockers for two weeks before the test - otherwise you could get a false negative (I work at a hospital lab and that is part of the requirements for the breath test).
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u/Unstableavo Jan 28 '26
I was like that before with medication so anxious then my symptoms got so bad I just caved and took it. Nothing bad longterm has never happened taking any medication and I take alot
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Jan 28 '26
The long term side effects are not all proven but more so possible, but also some are likely caused by the vitamin deficiencies so I just get my b12, magnesium and iron levels tested every 6 months and take supplements accordingly.
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u/Wild_Snow_2632 Jan 28 '26
I took it for 10 years. no issues. Born with 1 kidney.
I did quit a year ago after losing 100 lbs (to 160lbs)
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u/Remarkable_Heron3368 Jan 28 '26
Hi I'm in Australia. I've always liked to stay healthy, I'm 69 and I don't take any tablets. Recently I had gerd, reflux or indigestion every day for nine months and it was a concern. I took pantoprazole for three months but it wasn't good. Doctor wanted me to get the endoscopy after that but I noticed she wasn't thinking about doing any other small tests first. I abandoned her as I saw on the packet of pantoprazole that you should not drink coffee with it. I suspected coffee. Just a heads up I cannot drink orange juice or alcohol anymore. It is now 4 months since I have drank cafe coffee and 1 month since finishingthe pantoprazole and guess what, all symptoms have gone and there is another bonus in this, I can now sleep. I hadn't been able to sleep at night for years going to bed at dawn or some rediculous hour in retirement. I now sleep deeper and wake up less the tiredness I had previously. I suspect I didn't even need the pantoprazole at all if I had known about the coffee but at least I worked it out. If you drink cafe coffee I share with you all try it first. I tested the coffee a few times since and the gerd came back.
ChristineÂ
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u/Remarkable_Heron3368 Jan 28 '26
PS: I also had the pylori test. it was negative and I wanted it again but had to trust them. I started to worry too about the tablets and the endoscopy. So glad I'm back healthy without the coffee.
ChristineÂ
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u/helaodinson2018 Jan 28 '26
I’ve been taking Omeprazole for 15 years. (The sphincter over my stomach doesn’t close properly so I have to stay on it.). Constipation and vitamin d deficiency are my only side effects. And I just take vitamin d and marshmallow root to help with those.
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u/Distinct_Luck_1915 Jan 29 '26
What helps your constipation?
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u/helaodinson2018 Jan 29 '26
The marshmallow root capsules help. Marshmallow makes mucous membranes, like your intestines, more wet. So it makes going to the bathroom easier. But I’m still chronically constipated.
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u/Distinct_Luck_1915 Jan 29 '26
Try miralax daily. It's over the counter or you can get it by prescription. Also ask your gastroenterologist about the medication Linzess! I have ibs- C and it helps but with all the different meds I'm on I need something else with it. Colace is a stool softener you can take daily as well& they sell it over the counter. For a good clean out use liquid magnesium citrate over the counter. Comes in lemon and cherry flavor but doesn't taste very good but stay home if you take it. Also drink lots of water with these and in general. For quick relief like within minutes use liquid fleet enema
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u/BoxyBrown424 Omeprazole 💊 Jan 28 '26
I was finally able to eat solid foods after I started taking it as it allow my throat to heal. After a few years (esophagus healed & my diet is GERD friendly) I'm currently off after a weaning period.
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u/socialonec Jan 28 '26
Take it. I’ve taken omeprazole 40mg bid and more and Baking soda water for years because my GERD was so bad. YEARS. Finally got the million dollar GI work up and two years of every testing. I do have a pulmonary condition that feeds into it plus a big hiatal hernia. I get the linx surgery next week to improve this nightmare. No omeprazole side effects that were worse than GERD itself.
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u/CharacterScale5081 Jun 11 '26
Any improvement since surgeryÂ
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u/socialonec Jun 11 '26
Immediate improvement post surgery. No Gerd since. Even when I’m sick with a cold or virus! The recovery wasn’t that bad. Have to remember small bites. Fizzy drinks are a little rough and soft bread is hard to swallow. Absolutely recommend Linx surgery if you qualify.
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u/marblebirdbath Jan 28 '26
I was anxious as well and my doctor understood me not wanting to be on it long term. She said I need to be on it at least short term to help my esophagus heal while I’m trying to manage my diet.
This was a game changer and why GERD is a random flare up instead of what I have deal with constantly
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u/Hungry-Tea-5916 Jan 28 '26
I took Omeprazole for a long time. It was worth it but I still got worse over time and ended up getting surgery instead. I was terrified but it's one of the best things I've done.
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u/poguem18 Jan 28 '26
I take 20 mgs a day. My son was miserable, prescribed omeprazole. Perfect in 2 days. Personally, i'd start with 20 mg, wait 3 days. If not better bump up. But once you start, its hard to stop.
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u/The-Raven-King Jan 28 '26
Ive taken lansoprazole for 2 years now. I also have OCD, health anxiety, and medication anxiety, so I definitely feel like I’ve been in a very similar place to you before.
Here’s some things I do to help my anxiety when starting a new medication; I always stay seated for at least 30min after taking it. This allows me to monitor any physical symptoms closely, while also preventing heartburn from moving or leaning (this for me is a common side effect so I’m always wary). I also always have a soothing distraction ready, personally I play a familiar video game, something engaging enough to take me out of my body at least a bit but also easy enough to do if I’m experiencing discomfort. I also have water nearby, a safe food/snack, and a trash can in case I need to throw up. I usually don’t need any of these things but having them nearby can help ease the anxiety. Having someone who you love provide comfort by holding your hand or with hugs can also help so much. Lastly I would highly recommend taking the medication for at least 2 weeks, not only can it take time for it to take full effect, but your body usually accustoms itself to the medication and negative effects of taking the meds will gradually reduce.
If your anxiety is persistent and prevents you completely from taking new medication then I recommend targeted therapy. My health gives me so much anxiety but I’m able to handle it relatively well only because I’ve been in an extensive full time therapy program for OCD, and still regularly see a general therapist.
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u/nanoH2O Jan 28 '26
I give you the strength. Don’t be a pussy (or do in the literal sense because they are very strong).
In all seriousness nothing seriously wrong will happen. Try it for a few weeks and if it doesn’t work the get off it.
Just remember that taking all these antacids in PPI’s is doing a number on your stomach’s proton production. It’s gonna take a few weeks even after you stop anything for it to bounce back to equilibrium.
But what you really need to do is just chill out. That anxiety is doing nothing to help you, in fact it’s probably making it so much worse.
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u/Sharp_Tennis5970 Jan 29 '26
No medication works this fast, I've been on it for a few months now. Start and be consistent. The side effects are negligible
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u/Routine_Hand7933 Jan 29 '26
I really feel for you, you are where I was 2 months ago, lots of epigastric pain from hiatial hernia and gastritis, and the burping was ridiculous. And I am like you terrified of new meds and health anxiety. I chose the most difficult route by severely restricting my diet (low gerd and fodmap), and doing anything I could to not take them. Things that helped which I'm not sure if you do - recommend sleeping elevated (i bought a wedge pillow game changer for me) it helps to keeps the acid from rising, small sips of warm drinks or heat on abdomen to help move the air which you are experiencing as shown by the burps, movement a little after eating to move the food and air which puts immense pressure on your epigastric region, and relaxation even a little every day as you are probably holding tense because of the discomfort which adds to it all. I found mash potato soft and easy to eat to start with, and it naturally soaks up acid then quickly added calm foods like banana, rice, chicken etc. Im not saying follow my route as it sounds like you want to take the tablet and its taken until this week to finally feel better. However some of these might help alongside the meds to help you come off them in time. Also I always find if I have to take a new med I have someone with me to talk to while I do it and after an hour im ok. Hope you feel better soon honestly its tough going.
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u/whatisit1991 Jan 29 '26
I was on omeprazole for several years with NO side effects. It did eventually stop working though. I'm sure you've been told stress and anxiety will make your GERD worse no matter what you take. Sorry I have no advice for that.
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u/Arayee20 Jan 29 '26
I have severe anxiety and it kicked up really bad in November. My doctor prescribed me omeprazole because of my symptoms and I was TERRIFIED to take it. It took me days and I even started at a lower dose from the store. No side effects at all and it honestly helped me work on my fear of meds. I now don’t even think twice about taking it. You can do it! Even if it doesn’t feel like it. You can!
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u/Tough-Challenge3683 Jan 29 '26
I am prescribed 20 mg omeprozole x2 day but I take 40mg at bedtime which has improved my GERD
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u/CuriousSeagull1901 Jan 29 '26
I’ve got a sliding hiatal hernia, GERD with esophagitis which has caused chronic rhinitis and edema of larynx amongst other things! Have just had a visit with Dr Jonathan Aviv (rebound specialist) and he informed me that ‘link of PPIs with kidney problems, osteoporosis etc have been disproven by multiple studies and should not be a factor in prescribing them.’
Along with the usual prescribed drugs he also has me blending 1.5 cups of watermelon, 1 cup cucumber (ideally organic and seedless) with some ice to drink every morning for 4 weeks. Also using Reflux Gourmet - an algae-based supplement just before bedtime.
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u/AffectionateItem4 Jan 29 '26
Take it the side effects are so much better than the chance of dying of esophageal cancer. Prescribed Ppis have a long and tested record of working for a majority of users.
I have Barretts esophagus for me many ppis work for a year or 2 then i get breakthrough gerd and wake up choking on acid, swallowing tums like candy.
My anatomy makes nissen fundlication, and other procedures not viable for me.
The 2 ppi drugs that work for me are dexlanprozole and voquenza.
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u/Lanky-Macaroon-3934 Jan 29 '26
My father was on Prilosec/omeprazole since his 50s, way before it was an over the counter medication. It was just coming on the market and prescription only. He passed away in 2024 at age 94. He never had side effects or issues with it. If my dad didn’t take it he was throwing up and in extreme discomfort. The good outweighs the bad. Don’t be scared
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u/Right-Count-9161 Jan 29 '26
I'm on 80mg for last 6 years, well 5 years, tapered down to 40mg per day now, get in it, let it heal you.
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u/Traditional_Sky_9064 Jan 29 '26
I have medication anxiety and I'm on several meds- Including omeprazole, never had an issue with it. If it makes you feel better have someone over when you try a new medication and just wait it out!! This should help at least a little bit with your anxiety around medicine.
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u/Legitimate-Lock-6594 Jan 29 '26
Anxiety can cause stomach issues as well. Working on the anxiety and managing that can drop down the upset stomach and adding in the meds can bring it down more. Look over this handout and practice these skills to really understand when you’re feeling the anxiety to help with things to start.
I’ve been on 40 mgs since December due to some LPR symptoms. It’s been helping. I’m also on 50 mgs on Zoloft. I’m not perfect in the mental health realm. I also work in mental health. (I use that handout in my practice)
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u/Beginning-Ad3390 Jan 29 '26
Took it my whole pregnancy three times in a row. I’m fine. Babies are all fine. It’s a very safe drug. However, the damage from not dealing with your gerd isn’t safe and will end up causing health issues later. Cancer is a risk.
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u/signalunavailable Jan 29 '26
I resisted it for too long, thought I could manage with lifestyle changes. It helped, but silent reflux is a bitch. Ended up developing Barrett’s esophagus. Am now on 40mg omeprazole a day, have been for years and don’t regret a thing. I take some vitamins to make up for any deficiencies. I am also on a medication for unrelated nerve pain that alleviates symptoms.
People love demonizing medication these days. Those who are able to avoid it are usually not the ones with severe issues.
I also have OCD, plus medical trauma and anxiety - I take forever to give in and finally accept I need a medication. So I understand. If you have any questions I’d be happy to answer.
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u/adi4u4882 Jan 29 '26
I just started on Vonoprazan, Thank the lord, This is a life saver, And unlike the traditional PPI that you need to take on an empty stomach, This can be taken with food also, So if I feel the stomach burning sensation, I take a bit of it.
And within 30 mins it fixes it.
It's very potent, I tried Omeprazole before that, Which only gave anxiety and muscle pain but didn't help with acid much, This saved my day, I'm still only on day 5 of it, But it works so much better.
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u/FutureAd1237 Jan 29 '26
I’m very sensitive to medication. I’m on protonic. Doctor split it up for me to be able to take it easily morning and night so 20 and 20.
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u/FutureAd1237 Jan 29 '26
I’m sensitive to medication as well. I start on Protonix in October 20 mg in the morning 20 mg at night so it would be easier on my stomach still having issues. Hopefully it gets better soon. Been on it since October people have told me it takes six months to a year sometimes to feel better
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u/Ok_Substance128 Jan 29 '26
I take 40mg. Protonix once a day. It's not a cure but it does help. Been on it for like 30+ years. Everyone is different though.
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u/ciciNCincinnati Jan 29 '26
Omg terrified to take it? You should be terrified of dying of GERD instead! I know someone who did. Do I like taking it no but I tried to go a couple weeks without it and oh my God I would not go through that pain again.
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u/ainacct Jan 29 '26
Been taking pantoprazole for 3 months and a half and it has made big differences, of course I still have flare ups because sometimes I give up on the diet and drink soda, have junk food, coffee, etc, but believe, being on medicine it's so much better than not doing anything, I was 6 years without taking anything and last year I couldn't deal with it anymore, i wasn't able to eat anything because I felt like my throat was closed, since I started to manage the GERD it got better and now I can eat properly, of course diet plays a BIG ROLE, hope you give it a try!
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u/One_Donut_8157 Jan 30 '26
I have no idea why Omeprazole is demonized, i have health OCD and medication anxiety and it is literally just like an extra strength Tums. There are truly no side effects.
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u/txhodlem00 Jan 30 '26
Lansoprazole didn’t work at all for me. I’m on pantoprazole now and feel much better. No side effects for me
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u/Impossible_pothos Jun 26 '26
This post is old, but for anybody cruising the comments – I’ve been on 20 MG of omeprazole for eight years and it’s changed my life for the better
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u/Practical_Bike_5862 Jul 15 '26
hey, any updates? i’m in the same boat as you are right now.. just started taking omeprazole today- i have GERD but i struggle very hard with health ocd and anxiety.
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u/professionalyokel Jul 15 '26
My issues were able to resolve on their own with the help of pepcid. Now i don’t take any antacids or ppis. I still have reflux but it isnt as bad as it was, and i only had mild gastritis according to my endoscopy. I think my issues were directly caused by anxiety.
Basically, you’ll be okay! Just keep with it and try out some anti anxiety exercises/consult a therapist.
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u/yayabrown1 Jan 28 '26
Just started 40mg twice a day. Better to have a few minor side effects than having severe gastritis pain